A coordinated operation by members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) led to the arrest of four suspects, including two for attempted bribery, following a major dagga bust at the Middelburg Toll Plaza on Tuesday afternoon.
Acting on intelligence, a team comprising the Middelburg Flying Squad, Middelburg K9 Unit, and Provincial Counter Intelligence intercepted a Toyota GD-6 Double Cab bakkie allegedly transporting a large consignment of dagga. The operation, conducted around 17:30 on July 15, 2025, resulted in the discovery of 15 bags stuffed with dagga, weighing approximately 307 kilograms, with an estimated street value of R1.8 million.
Two male suspects, aged 39 and 50, were arrested in connection with the drug haul. However, while police were processing the arrests, two foreign nationals from Lesotho approached the officers and allegedly offered a R13,000 bribe in exchange for their release along with the confiscated dagga. The officers swiftly apprehended the duo, charging them with bribery.
All four suspects are set to appear before the Emalahleni Magistrate’s Court today, July 17, 2025.