Drug lab uncovered on plot near Hartbeespoort, four arrested

• Four suspects have been arrested after police uncovered a drug laboratory on a plot near Hartbeespoort Dam on Tuesday.
• A search of the premises revealed what appeared to be a drug laboratory with processed drugs, drug production mixture, and manufacturing equipment.
• Police also found a rifle and three handguns.

Four people have been arrested after police uncovered a drug laboratory on a plot in Skeerpoort, near Hartbeespoort Dam in North West, on Tuesday.

Crime prevention officers received information regarding suspected illegal activities at the property, which was shared with Brits Crime Intelligence and Hartbeespoort Dam K9 for further intelligence gathering and verification.

Police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh said that upon arrival at the identified address, police found three women and a man.

“A search of the premises uncovered what appeared to be a drug laboratory, with processed drugs, a drug production mixture, and equipment allegedly used in the manufacturing of drugs,” she said.

Myburgh said four firearms, including a rifle and three handguns, were also seized during the raid.

“The four suspects, a 39-year-old Zimbabwean national male and three females aged between 23 and 29, were arrested and charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as dealing and manufacturing of drugs in terms of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, 1992 (Act No. 140 of 1992).”

Police seized four guns from a property suspected to be a drug laboratory, including a rifle.Supplied/SAPS

Police are yet to determine the value of the drugs.

The suspects are expected to appear in the Brits Magistrate’s Court soon.

North West police commissioner Lieutenant General Sello Kwena commended the officers for their swift response and collaboration, which led to the arrests.

He said the police remain committed to dismantling organised crime syndicates involved in the manufacturing and distribution of drugs.

He sent a stern warning to criminals that the South African Police Service remains resolute and relentless in the fight against crime.

Source: Drug lab uncovered on plot near Hartbeespoort, four arrested | News24