The accused were arrested during a major operation on Wednesday when drugs worth an estimated R100m were seized at an alleged drug laboratory on a farm in Brakspruit. Eleven suspects, including foreign nationals and a woman, were taken into custody during the raid. 

The group comprises five Mexican nationals, two Mozambican nationals, one Zimbabwean national, and three South African citizens. The suspects are facing charges related to drug manufacturing, illegal possession of precious metals, illegal possession of hazardous materials, and contravention of the Immigration Act.

The operation uncovered what authorities believe is a large-scale illegal drug manufacturing facility linked to the production of methamphetamine.

Law enforcement officers confiscated tons of chemicals and equipment allegedly used in the manufacturing of illegal drugs, along with three firearms, said Hawks national spokesperson Col. Katlego Mogale.

Forensic experts are still processing the crime scene; however, approximately 481kg of methamphetamine with an estimated street value amounting to millions of rands have thus far been confiscated.

“It is anticipated that the quantity may increase once the entire scene has been thoroughly processed. The estimated value of the illicit drug laboratory exceeds R1bn,” said Mogale.

According to preliminary investigations, the laboratory is believed to be the fourth drug lab in South Africa with alleged Mexican links. Certain details surrounding the investigation could not yet be disclosed due to the sensitive nature of the case.

“At this stage, the owners of the property have not yet been located. However, the owner’s son and other relatives were among those arrested. The owners are currently required for questioning as investigations continue,” Mogale added.

Meanwhile, North West community safety and transport management MEC Wessels Morweng said authorities are intensifying efforts to dismantle drug manufacturing networks instead of focusing solely on street-level dealers.

“I think we need to speak the truth as politicians in the country, we are confronted with serious problems of foreign nationals in this country, undocumented that are seriously causing harm to our country,” said Morweng.

While South Africa shares borders with neighbouring SADC countries, stronger measures are needed to address undocumented immigration linked to criminal activities, he said.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

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