Police uncover suspected R100m drug lab in North West

NORTH WEST DRUG LAB 🚨 🚨 https://t.co/NyxN2DTEMs pic.twitter.com/55oWwTi3tw

South Voices (@SAVOICES_) May 13, 2026

What happened

Crime Intelligence at the National Head Office located the suspected laboratory at Portion 45 Farm Brakspruit, Swartruggens in the North West province. The discovery and seizure took place on Wednesday morning.

Current status at the scene

Police say the site remains an active crime scene and that officers are still at the location. It was not yet clear whether any arrests had been made.

Who is involved

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe provided confirmation of the bust. Police said North West police spokesperson Colonel Adele Myburgh and national police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk were on their way to the scene.

Investigation under way

The police described the operation as a large-scale, intelligence-driven action. The laboratory and seized drugs are estimated at about R100 million. Authorities characterised the incident as a developing story.

This report is based solely on police statements released about the operation.