Four arrested after suspected drug lab found at Hartbeespoortdam

Four suspects have been arrested after police uncovered what appeared to be a drug lab and seized four firearms near Hartbeespoortdam, Joburg Etc reports.

The operation took place in Scheerpoort on 6 October, after Hartbeespoortdam SAPS Crime Prevention members received information about suspected activity. The information was shared with Brits Crime Intelligence and Hartbeespoortdam K9 for verification.

According to SAPS, members found three women and a man at the property. A search allegedly uncovered processed drugs, a drug production mixture and equipment believed to have been used to manufacture drugs.

Police seized a rifle and three handguns. The suspects include a 39-year-old Zimbabwean national man and three women aged between 23 and 29. They face charges relating to the possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as dealing and manufacturing drugs under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, 1992.

The suspects are expected to appear in the Brits Magistrates’ Court soon. North West Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams praised the officers for their ‘swift response and collaboration’ and said police would continue targeting organised crime linked to drug manufacturing and distribution. Investigations are continuing, including efforts to determine the value of the seized drugs, SAPS said.