The Directorate of Priority Crime Investigation arrested nine people on Monday in connection with the drug lab bust in Krugersdorp.
- The Hawks in Gauteng have arrested nine people in a drug bust in Krugersdorp.
- Colonel Katlego Mogale said the gang manufactured cocaine and mandrax.
- Their ages range from 18 to 55.
Nine people were arrested on Monday at a multi-million rand drug “super lab” in Krugersdorp.
Hawks spokesperson Katlego Mogale said police responded to a tip-off about a drug lab operating in an abandoned factory in Pooley Street, Boltonia, Krugersdorp West.
Mogale said the gang was manufacturing large quantities of methamphetamine-type chemicals.
“Members of the Serious Organized Crime Investigation Team descended on the dilapidated factory where they discovered a large assortment of methamphetamine-producing chemicals.
“Nine suspects, including two women, were arrested during the raid,” he said.
Mogale said the group ranged in age from 18 to 55.
They are scheduled to appear in the Krugersdorp Magistrate's Court on Wednesday on charges of manufacturing illegal drugs.
Mr Mogale said Gauteng Hawks commander Major General Ebrahim Kadwa had encouraged law enforcement authorities to arrest the ringleaders of the illegal drug ring.
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Last month, national police spokesperson Brigadier Atlenda Mate said police had destroyed R550-million worth of drugs after several raids last year.
Marte said the contraband included cocaine, heroin, mandrax and cannabis.
Mr Mathe said authorities seized drugs from various consignments in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State, Gauteng, North West and Mpumalanga.
National Police Commissioner Fanny Masemola said police had closed 131 laboratories since 2019 and arrested 19,000 people on suspicion of drug production during the Christmas season.
“Our members are working hard to take drugs off the streets to stop drugs coming into the country as well as into the country, and this is based on the capabilities of our criminal intelligence unit and the vigilance of our active members. It speaks of the heart.
“We also appreciate the input from community members who have helped us stop these drugs,” he said.