A 48-YEAR-OLD male, Thulani Mtotoba, was arrested at what is reported to be a Mandrax manufacturing facility in Brackendowns Extension Five on September 4.
The bust was led by South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), EMPD SWAT Unit and SAPS Intelligence Investigation Operation.
During the bust at the Brackendowns home, the team also found an undisclosed amount of money hidden in the suspect’s vehicle.
They also recovered two Mandrax tablet manufacturing machines.
The accused faces charges of manufacturing and dealing in drugs.
According to Kay Makhubele, Gauteng provincial SAPS spokesperson, it took time before the intelligence teams could make their move.
They had been observing the house and had to make sure that by the time the house was visited they got positive results.
Makhubele said: “We are happy because we are closing down Mandrax laboratories throughout the country.
“We are continuing with the search in finding those who are busy with this to be brought to book.
“People always say there’s no intelligence in South Africa. This shows that indeed the intelligence works. The intelligence is on the ground all the time.”
Lt-Gen Elias Mawela, the Gauteng police commissioner, said the drug bust was the result of an intelligence-driven operation.
“This is a big drug lab that manufactures Mandrax. Inside there are two machines that can produce a lot of Mandrax tablets at a time. Our members have saved many lives because of this bust.”
He also condemned false news that is being spread on social media platforms leading to panic among the public.
“We call upon our people in South Africa to not disseminate false news. Upon getting any information, verify it with the SAPS.”
The accused appeared in the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court on September 6, where he was said to appear again on September 16 for his formal bail hearing.
He is currently in custody at Boksburg Correctional Services.
Important things to know about Mandrax
About the drug
According to the Cape Town Drug Counselling Centre (CTDCC), Mandrax is a small tablet varying in colour that is highly addictive.
Mandrax slows down the central nervous system and has a sedative effect.
Originally, Mandrax pills were firm and white in colour, with Mx written on the side of the tablet.
Currently, Mandrax can be freckled, crumbly and may be grey, yellow or white.
Effects of Mandrax
Relaxation – carefree
Confusion
Aggression – when it wears off
Nausea and vomiting
Falling over and passing out
Sleeping
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