Swartruggens Drug Lab Bust Leads to Arrest of 11 Suspects

By Brigadier Athlenda Mathe
SAPS Spokesperson

The Acting National Commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, has welcomed the arrest of 11 suspects following the discovery of a mutlimillion rand drug manufacturing laboratory on a farm in Swarttruggens, North West.

The suspects include four Mexican nationals and one woman.

The intelligence-driven operation was executed by the National Head Office Crime Intelligence, National Head Office Organised Crime Investigations and a National team from the DPCI.

This intelligence-driven operation resulted in the successful dismantling of the drug lab and the arrest of the suspects.

Lieutenant General Dimpane commends members for their continued commitment in dismantling organised crime syndicates involved in the manufacturing and distribution of drugs.

“The latest drug bust must send a stern warning to criminals that the South African Police Service remains resolute and relentless in the fight against crime.

Laboratory drug bust in North West photos supplied

We will continue to intensify operations aimed at disrupting and dismantling drug networks operating within our communities,” said Lieutenant General Dimpane.

Last week alone, police arrested 280 suspects for dealing in drugs and a further 2 573 suspects for possession of drugs during operations conducted across the country.

Police investigations into the matter are continuing.