Central SA
Hawks investigate links between 11 suspected drug laboratories nationwide─── ZENANDE MPAME 14:55 Mon, 12 Oct 2026
The Hawks are intensifying investigations into the suspected drug manufacturing laboratories across South Africa, and to establish possible links between the facilities.
Investigations will also identify those behind the operations and trace the origins of chemicals used to manufacture illegal drugs. This follows the discovery of an alleged R100m drug laboratory at a farm in Hekpoort, near Krugersdorp.
Five suspects are expected to appear in the Krugersdorp Magistrate’s Court on Monday (12/10). They were arrested during a multidisciplinary operation that led to the discovery of the suspected clandestine laboratory, estimated to be worth R100m.
Hawks spokesperson Katlego Mogale said investigators are also working to establish ownership of the properties where the laboratories were found, as police seek to dismantle suspected drug manufacturing networks. “Thus far, eleven drug laboratories have been uncovered nationally, and more than 30 suspects have been arrested.”
“The South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (Saneb) is working around the clock to connect as to where these people come from, where is it that these chemicals that are being found in the many drug labs come from, and, as part of that investigation, to ascertain who the owners of the plot where these drug labs were found are.”
The latest bust comes amid a series of drug laboratory discoveries in Gauteng and North West, highlighting ongoing police efforts to dismantle suspected drug manufacturing and distribution networks.
On Tuesday (6/10) four suspects were arrested after police uncovered what appeared to be another drug laboratory at a property in Scheerpoort, near Hartbeespoortdam, in North West. Police found three women and a man at the property, where they allegedly discovered processed drugs, a drug production mixture, and equipment suspected of being used to manufacture illegal substances.
Four firearms, including a rifle and three handguns, were seized. The suspects, between the ages of 23 and 39, face charges relating to drug manufacturing and dealing, as well as the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
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