South African police applauded for R10m drug lab bust in Westonaria
The African National Congress (ANC) parliamentary caucus has lauded Gauteng’s Organised Crime Unit following the discovery of a R10 million drug laboratory in Westonaria, leading to the arrest of two suspects.
In a statement, the ANC study group on police emphasized that legislation and policy alone cannot eliminate drug-related crimes, which have devastating effects on South African communities.
“The ANC calls on all sectors of society to collaborate with law enforcement by reporting drug-related activities,” the caucus stated, adding that rising drug abuse threatens the future of the country’s youth and requires a collective national response.
On Thursday, the South African Police Service (SAPS) announced that National Crime Intelligence members had been monitoring suspicious movements at a plot on the outskirts of Westonaria before obtaining a search and seizure warrant.
During the operation, authorities confiscated mandrax and drug-manufacturing machinery, while one suspect was caught inside the laboratory and immediately arrested. Further investigations led to the apprehension of a second suspect, aged 51 and 49, both now facing charges of manufacturing and dealing in drugs.
The ANC caucus reiterated that dismantling drug laboratories and arresting kingpins are critical steps in reducing drug-related crime. The party urged the public to remain vigilant and assist police efforts to combat the escalating drug epidemic affecting communities across South Africa.
