By Staff Reporter
VOLKSRUST – A major breakthrough in the fight against drug trafficking has been recorded after police dismantled a clandestine crystal methamphetamine laboratory worth an estimated R350 million on a farm in Volksrust.
The operation, which took place on Friday, September 19, 2025, led to the arrest of five foreign nationals from North America. A South African farm caretaker was also taken into custody, while two other suspects – believed to be from West Africa – managed to evade arrest by fleeing into nearby bushes.
The bust followed a community tip-off about a strong chemical smell coming from the farm in Oudehoutkloof. Acting on the information, a multidisciplinary law enforcement team under Operation Shanela 2, which included the Department of Home Affairs, moved in swiftly.
When police arrived, the suspects attempted to escape on foot but were quickly apprehended. Inside the property, officers uncovered large quantities of precursor chemicals, drug-manufacturing equipment, and crystal methamphetamine stored in lunch boxes and buckets inside freezers. The haul is valued at approximately R350 million.
Additionally, a pellet gun loaded with blank rounds and three live 9mm rounds were found in the possession of the caretaker.
According to police, the arrested North American nationals were in the country illegally. They face charges under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act and the Immigration Act. The farm caretaker faces charges for possession of ammunition.
Major General Mkhwanazi praised the success of the operation, saying:
“This massive success demonstrates that cooperation between police in Mpumalanga and other entities, both government and private, is bearing expected results. Police are working hard to rid the streets of Mpumalanga of all types of drugs, and dismantling a clandestine drug lab, which is the source of these drugs, is a step in the right direction. We applaud the community members who continue to work with police and provide valuable tip-offs.”
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (Hawks) has since taken over the case. The suspects are expected to appear in court soon.
