R20 million drug lab uncovered in Standerton, six arrested
A clandestine drug laboratory worth an estimated R20 million has been uncovered in Standerton, Mpumalanga, leading to the arrest of six suspects.
The Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation team in Secunda, in collaboration with Crime Intelligence and the K9 Unit, raided a warehouse in the Standerton industrial area on Friday morning.
Officers discovered a large quantity of chemicals suspected to be used in drug manufacturing inside the building, where the initial three suspects were apprehended.
Hawks spokesperson Magonseni Nkosi confirmed that a total of six suspects, aged between 19 and 60, believed to be Mozambican nationals, were arrested during the operation.
“Investigations led to the arrest of a fourth suspect believed to be their employer,” said Nkosi.
The team later proceeded to a nearby farm, where additional chemicals and drug-manufacturing machinery were found. Two more suspects were arrested at the farm.
“The estimated value of the recovered substances and machinery is R20 million. The exact figure will be confirmed following a detailed forensic analysis,” Nkosi added.
A BMW X5, believed to belong to one of the suspects, was also seized for further investigation.
Mpumalanga Hawks Provincial Head, Major General Nico Gerber, commended the officers involved.
“There have been a number of drug-related cases reported in Standerton.”
"Hawks members were tasked to monitor and expand our network to focus on these cases.”
"This seizure is the result of commitment and hard work. The collaboration between different stakeholders led to this success,” he said.
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
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