A multi-agency operation in the Mangaung Metro led to a significant breakthrough in the fight against smuggling at the G4S Correctional Facility on the morning of Thursday, 20 November 2025.
The operation, a collaboration between the Department of Correctional Services and the South African Police Service (SAPS), was launched following received intelligence about contraband activities.
Acting on this information, authorities conducted a random search targeting a 36-year-old Direct Supervision Officer. During the inspection of the officer’s locker, a fork was used to probe the contents of the suspect’s lunch box.
The search revealed a substantial quantity of illicit drugs. Hidden within the food were 149 Mandrax tablets, sealed with masking tape, and a quantity of compressed dagga concealed inside a transparent plastic bag.
The suspect was immediately placed under arrest by G4S Correctional Centre managers, who were assisted by members of the Bloemspruit Visible Policing Unit.
A case docket for Possession of Drugs has been opened at the Bloemspruit Police Station. The accused officer is expected to make his first appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrate Court in the coming days.