Key Points
- Police seized nearly R900,000 worth of dagga during two roadblocks along the N1 in Central Karoo.
- Two suspects, aged 41 and 45, were arrested and will appear in court on drug charges.
- Western Cape police plan to continue intensified operations through the long weekend.
Officers intercept suspects during roadblocks on the N1 in Central Karoo
BEAUFORT WEST, South Africa — Western Cape police seize dagga worth nearly R900,000 in two separate operations along the N1 in the Central Karoo. They arrested two men over the weekend.
Efforts to curb the influx of drugs into the province intensified when the Central Karoo Flying Squad conducted a vehicle checkpoint near Beaufort West on Saturday evening, April 26, 2025. Officers pulled over a Toyota RAV4 after they noticed suspicious behavior. They detected the strong scent of dagga inside the vehicle.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Christopher Spies said officers discovered nine bags of dagga concealed under a blanket during the search. “Police confiscated nine bags of dagga with an estimated street value of R823,000. The 45-year-old driver was taken into custody,” Spies said.
In addition, officers carried out a separate operation on Thursday, April 24, 2025. Police and other law enforcement agencies set up a roadblock on the N1 and stopped a Toyota Hilux bakkie. During a thorough search of the vehicle, officers found a suitcase packed with 16 parcels of dagga. The parcels had an estimated street value of R90,000. Authorities immediately arrested the 41-year-old driver.
Suspects to appear in court for drug-related charges
Both suspects remain in police custody while awaiting their court appearances. They will appear before the Beaufort West Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Each suspect faces charges related to dealing in drugs, according to the Western Cape police.
The successful interceptions highlight the importance of coordinated efforts between different law enforcement units operating across the province’s major transport corridors. Furthermore, police said the busts serve as a warning to traffickers who attempt to move illegal substances into or through the region.
The Western Cape police seize dagga in significant amounts as part of their ongoing commitment to disrupting drug trafficking networks and maintaining public safety.
Law enforcement agencies sustain operations during long weekend
Western Cape police management praised the officers involved for their vigilance and dedication. “These arrests and confiscations form part of ongoing crime-combatting and road safety operations,” police management said in a statement.
Moreover, authorities confirmed that these operations would continue throughout the long weekend and in the weeks ahead. They aim to disrupt criminal activities and enhance safety on the roads.
Finally, police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities along major transport routes. They emphasized that community cooperation is vital to maintaining public safety.
