Eleven people arrested in connection with a massive drug manufacturing operation in the North West are expected to appear in the Swartruggens Magistrates Court on Friday.
The suspects include five Mexican nationals, two Mozambican nationals, one Zimbabwean national and three South Africans.
Their arrests followed an intelligence-led operation conducted earlier this week, which uncovered what authorities believe is a large-scale methamphetamine production facility.
North West Meth Lab Raid Uncovers Drugs And Firearms
Law enforcement officials said approximately 481 kilograms of methamphetamine were seized during the operation. The drugs have an estimated street value of millions of rands.
Investigators also confiscated a range of chemicals and specialised equipment believed to have been used in the manufacturing process, as well as three firearms.
The discovery is being treated as one of the most significant drug lab busts in the province.
Hawks Confirm Mexican Links To South African Drug Laboratories
Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation spokesperson Katlego Mogale said the facility is the fourth drug laboratory uncovered in South Africa that allegedly has links to Mexican nationals.
“At this stage, the owners of the property have not yet been located. However, the owner’s son and other relatives were among those arrested. The owners are currently required for questioning as investigations continue.
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“Due to the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation, certain information cannot be divulged at this stage and will be communicated in due course. Investigations remain ongoing.”
Authorities have indicated that investigations are continuing and additional developments may follow as the case unfolds.
