In a concerted effort to combat the pervasive issue of drug trafficking and possession in South Africa, a multi-disciplinary team, spearheaded by the Hawks, executed a meticulously planned operation on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. The operation, spanning Secunda and Bethal in Mpumalanga, saw the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies, including the Serious Organised Crime Investigation units, Department of Health, K9 units, Tactical Response teams, and others.
Major General Gerber, the Provincial Head of the Hawks, underscored the gravity of the drug menace, emphasising its indiscriminate impact on communities. “Drugs and drug trafficking is a challenge in our policing areas. It affects everybody, young and old,” stated Major General Gerber.
The operation unfolded with precision, targeting addresses suspected of manufacturing and distributing narcotics. Covert operations led to the identification of suspects allegedly involved in the illicit activities. Subsequently, search and seizure warrants were obtained and executed, yielding significant results.
At a farm in the vicinity, authorities uncovered a drug lab along with an arsenal of illegal firearms and ammunition. A 70-year-old suspect was promptly apprehended in connection with the findings.
In Bethal, a second address was raided, resulting in the confiscation of processing equipment indicative of a drug lab, along with a substantial cache of ammunition. Additionally, various paraphernalia associated with drug production, including magic mushrooms, were seized. A 40-year-old individual was taken into custody.
Further searches in Secunda led to the discovery of additional drug-related materials, including tables laden with drugs, sweets infused with narcotics, and other paraphernalia. A 32-year-old woman was arrested in connection with these findings.
At another address in Secunda, authorities seized dagga and magic mushroom plants, along with chemicals commonly used in the production of illicit substances. A 33-year-old suspect was apprehended at the scene.
Lastly, a business premises was targeted, resulting in the seizure of a significant quantity of dry cannabis, cannabis-infused products, and the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect.
All apprehended individuals are set to face charges and are slated to appear before the Secunda Magistrates Court on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Meanwhile, investigations into the matter are ongoing, underscoring law enforcement’s commitment to rooting out criminal activities plaguing communities.