Hawks
By Mpho Moloi
The Hawks have scored a major victory in the fight against drug trafficking after confiscating an estimated R2 million worth of mandrax from a vehicle at N1 City Mall on Monday, 28 April 2025.
According to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Zinzi Hani, the bust was the result of an intelligence-driven operation conducted by members of the Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB) team.
Hani said, “The vehicle was spotted, thereafter stopped and searched. On closer inspection, two containers containing 51 packets — equalling 51,000 mandrax tablets — were found in the boot of the vehicle. The driver was immediately arrested.”
The suspect, a 28-year-old man, is set to appear in the Goodwood Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 30 April 2025, where he will face a charge of dealing in drugs.
Intelligence-Led Policing Pays Off
The success of this operation highlights the importance of intelligence-led policing in combating the growing drug trade in South Africa. Officers acted swiftly once the vehicle was identified, ensuring that the drugs did not make their way onto the streets.
Mandrax, known scientifically as methaqualone, remains one of the most widely abused illicit substances in the country, often linked to organised crime, gangsterism, and violent offences. Large busts like this one are a key part of national efforts to disrupt supply chains and reduce the availability of drugs in local communities.
Court Appearance Expected
The 28-year-old suspect remains in custody and will be formally charged during his appearance at the Goodwood Magistrate’s Court. Prosecutors are expected to oppose bail, given the serious nature of the offence and the large quantity of drugs involved.
The Hawks have indicated that investigations are ongoing, with the possibility of further arrests not being ruled out. Authorities are working to establish whether the suspect is linked to a larger syndicate operating within the Western Cape and beyond.
Public Praise for Hawks’ Efforts
The swift action by the Hawks has been praised by members of the public and community safety groups. With drug-related crimes continuing to plague Cape Town and other parts of the country, citizens have welcomed decisive enforcement measures aimed at tackling drug distribution at its source.
This latest success follows a series of targeted operations by the Hawks and other law enforcement agencies aimed at dismantling criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other serious crimes.
Ongoing Commitment to Combat Drugs
Warrant Officer Hani reiterated the Hawks’ commitment to maintaining pressure on drug traffickers: “We will continue to act on credible intelligence to root out those who seek to destroy our communities through the distribution of illegal substances.”
As the Hawks continue their relentless pursuit of organised criminal activity, this bust serves as a stark warning to those involved in the illicit drug trade — law enforcement agencies are watching, and action will be taken.
The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the Hawks anonymously to assist in their ongoing crime-fighting efforts.

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