R11 million dagga seizure in Hoedspruit leads to three arrests

Operation Shanela II in Limpopo has resulted in the seizure of dagga valued at R11 million and the arrest of three suspects after a late‑night interception in Hoedspruit.

Interception and arrests

Police said the operation was carried out by members of Hoedspruit SAPS working with Farm Watch between Saturday evening, 30 May 2026, and the early hours of Sunday, 31 May 2026. Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said officers intercepted a Toyota Quantum taxi and a Hyundai sedan along the R527 near Snake Park at about 21:15 on Saturday night.

“Acting on information regarding the movement of a large quantity of drugs through the area, operational members intercepted a Toyota Quantum taxi and a Hyundai sedan along the R527 near Snake Park at about 21:15 on Saturday night.”

Evidence recovered

Ledwaba said a search of the vehicles uncovered 130 bags of dagga. Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment originated from Eswatini and was being transported through Limpopo for distribution elsewhere in the country.

Charges and court appearance

Three suspects, aged between 34 and 35, were arrested on charges of dealing in dagga. The suspects are expected to appear before the Hoedspruit Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 01 June 2026. Police investigations are continuing.

Additional enforcement and patrols

The operation also produced other arrests: three suspects for urinating in public and one suspect for the use of dagga. Ledwaba said operational teams conducted patrols in three villages, ten farms, an airport, four banking institutions, and six ATMs as part of crime‑prevention and visibility operations.

Police response and partnership

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, praised the collaborative effort between SAPS members and Farm Watch.

“This seizure has prevented a substantial quantity of illicit drugs from reaching communities and demonstrates the effectiveness of joint operations,”

Hadebe said.

“Criminals must know that law enforcement remains determined to disrupt drug trafficking networks and protect our communities from the harmful effects of drugs.”