SAPS secure Rietfontein property and cash after R100m meth lab seizure

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has secured a court preservation order on a Rietfontein property and cash tied to a drug laboratory valued at about R100 million, after a takedown in November 2024 uncovered a clandestine methamphetamine manufacturing operation.

High Court order and legal steps

The High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Division, Pretoria, granted a preservation of property order under Section 50 of the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA), Act 121 of 1998, against the Rietfontein property.

The preservation order authorises the National Prosecuting Authority’s Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) to sell the property. According to SAPS, the proceeds from the sale, together with the cash seized at the scene, will be paid into the Criminal Assets Recovery Account (CARA).

Raid and arrests

SAPS said the order stems from a takedown operation carried out on 27 November 2024, when officers uncovered a clandestine drug laboratory on a property in Rietfontein, Gauteng. A Mexican national was arrested at the scene.

Police reported that a multidisciplinary team executed the search-and-seizure warrant. The team included members of the National and Gauteng Provincial Organised Crime Investigation: Narcotics Units, Crime Intelligence, the West Rand Tactical Response Team (TRT), and the West Rand K9 Unit.

Evidence seized

Authorities seized various chemicals, drug manufacturing equipment, and finished products, which were confirmed to be methamphetamine, commonly known as crystal meth.

Official response

Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane said the preservation order demonstrates that

“crime does not pay.”

Police emphasised that, through cooperation between SAPS investigators and the National Prosecuting Authority, those involved in manufacturing and distributing illicit drugs will be deprived not only of their freedom but also of the assets and profits derived from criminal activity.

Ongoing stance

SAPS said it remains resolute in dismantling organised crime syndicates and safeguarding communities from the impact of drugs.