Gauteng Police
Nkosana Khumalo
The South African Police Service (SAPS) Highway Patrol uncovered a fully operational drug lab on a smallholding in De Deur, Gauteng Province, on 14 November 2024. The raid, conducted during routine patrols, led to the arrest of three male suspects and the seizure of a tablet presser machine, suspected mandrax tablets, and two high-end vehicles – a Mercedes Benz and a Volvo.
Gauteng Police Arrest Three Suspects in De Deur Drug Lab Raid.
Discovery and Seizure
While patrolling the De Deur policing precinct, SAPS Highway Patrol officers observed unusual activity on the smallholding. Acting on their instincts, they inspected the property and uncovered a clandestine drug laboratory equipped with sophisticated drug manufacturing tools, including a tablet press machine. A significant quantity of tablets, suspected to be mandrax, was also recovered. According to police reports, the confiscated equipment and drugs are now undergoing forensic testing to confirm their composition and estimate their market value.
Arrests and Assets Confiscated
Three suspects, all male, were arrested at the scene and taken into custody. SAPS also impounded a Mercedes Benz and a Volvo found on the property. The vehicles, believed to have been used in the transportation of drugs, are now subject to further investigation. Law enforcement has confirmed that the arrested individuals will face charges relating to drug possession, manufacturing, and distribution.
Historical Context: Ongoing Efforts in De Deur
This recent operation follows a similar raid in De Deur earlier this year, highlighting the persistent issue of drug manufacturing in the area. On 9 July 2024, the Sedibeng Flying Squad and K9 Unit, acting on intelligence, dismantled another drug lab in the same region. In that operation, police seized drug manufacturing equipment and mandrax tablets valued at approximately R2.3 million. Four suspects, aged between 37 and 56, were arrested, including the property owner.
Brigadier Mathapelo Peters of SAPS emphasised the importance of these operations in disrupting the illegal drug trade: “Our officers remain committed to combating drug-related crimes and ensuring the safety of our communities. These consecutive operations in De Deur underscore the ongoing efforts to root out criminal networks in Gauteng.”
Community Reaction and Concerns
The residents of De Deur have expressed mixed emotions following the latest raid. While many are relieved that the police are taking decisive action against drug-related crimes, others are concerned about the apparent prevalence of such illegal operations in their area. “It’s worrying that these drug labs keep popping up,” said a local community leader, Thabo Mokoena. “We urge the police to remain vigilant and continue working closely with the community to prevent this from happening again.”
Gauteng Police Arrest Three Suspects in De Deur Drug Lab Raid.
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