R2 million of drugs seized in Mulbarton
Hawks investigating if the ring leader and other suspects arrested during major drug bust could be part of a larger syndicate
MULBARTON – A raid by the Hawks on March 4 led investigators to a drug lab in Mulbarton, where Mandrax tablets with a street value of R2 million were being manufactured.
Drug manufacturing chemicals and powder believed to be drugs were found in the Mulbarton residence. According to the Hawks an initial raid was conducted at a drug lab in Wadeville, Alberton on March 3.
Two men were caught in the act of manufacturing and pressing drugs during a joint operation by the Hawks and the Johannesburg Flying Squad. One suspect was arrested by investigators, while the other suspect is still at large.
Hawks Spokesperson, Hangwani Mulaudzi said in a statement: “Two suspects were allegedly found busy manufacturing and pressing Mandax tablets. One was arrested at the scene, while the other managed to escape. Further investigations led the police to an address in Mulbarton, where the alleged ringleader was arrested with another accomplice.”
The Hawks also revealed that chemicals, equipment, a delivery vehicle, Mandrax tablets and powder were seized during both drug busts.
An alleged ring leader was also found and arrested during the raids, bringing the number of suspects arrested to three. All three suspects are aged between 26 and 35 and will appear in court soon.
Reports also stated that the SAPS are searching for a fourth suspect involved in the manufacturing of illegal drugs.
Mulaudzi also stated that the Hawks were still trying to ascertain if these three suspects formed part of a bigger syndicate and also to check whether they could be connected to other drug laboratories in the Johannesburg area.
