By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
SA Police Services (SAPS) have uncovered quantities of Mandrax and Ecstasy at a suspected multi-million-rand drug manufacturing laboratory in Krugersdorp, Gauteng.
The discovery follows an operation involving SAPS Crime Intelligence and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks.
According to Police the laboratory was being used to manufacture illicit drugs, with quantities of Mandrax and ecstasy tablets discovered on the premises.
SAPS National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said police discovered quantities of Mandrax and Ecstasy tablets at the suspected drug manufacturing laboratory.
“Five South African nationals who were found at the premises have been arrested,” Mathe said.
Mathe added that the premises remained an active crime scene.
Gauteng Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni confirmed that police have identified the property owner, who will face criminal charges.
The latest discovery forms part of ongoing police efforts to dismantle drug manufacturing operations and remove illicit drugs from circulation.
Mthombeni said the investigation was continuing, with further details expected as officers assess the scene and determine the full extent of the drug manufacturing operation.
The discovery comes a day after another suspected multi-million rand drug manufacturing laboratory was uncovered in the North West (NW).
Four suspects were arrested and four firearms, including a rifle and three handguns, were seized during an intelligence-driven operation at a plot in Scheerpoort, near Hartbeespoort Dam, on Tuesday.
NW police spokesperson Adele Myburgh said officers found processed drugs, a drug production mixture, and equipment used in the manufacturing of drugs. The suspects face charges of possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as dealing in and manufacturing drugs.