GAUTENG – An extensive intelligence-driven operation by Gauteng police has led to the arrest of five suspects and the dismantling of a hydroponic dagga laboratory valued at over R1 million in De Deur. This significant bust in the Sedibeng District underscores a coordinated, ongoing crackdown on illicit drug manufacturing and illegal firearm possession in the province.
The targeted raid was executed through a highly collaborative effort involving several specialized law enforcement units. Teams from Gauteng Counterfeit Intelligence Narcotics, Gauteng Organised Crime, West Rand K9, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), and National Cybercrime worked alongside private security personnel to secure the property, neutralize the operation, and gather critical evidence.
Gauteng police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko confirmed that, in addition to the lucrative cannabis cultivation setup, law enforcement officers seized a .303 rifle and a 9mm Glock pistol during the sweep of the premises.
According to Captain Sibeko, the detained individuals are all foreign nationals. The group comprises two citizens from Jamaica, two from Malawi, and one from Lesotho, with ages ranging from 29 to 68 years old.
The suspects now face serious legal consequences, including formal charges for contravening Sections 3 and 5(b) of the Drug Trafficking Act 140 of 1992. Captain Sibeko further noted that two of the five individuals are confronting additional allegations related to the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.
All accused parties are scheduled to make their initial appearance at the Meyerton Magistrate’s Court in the near future, while police investigations into the broader network remain active and ongoing.
Â
Â