Gauteng Police Dismantle Major Drug Laboratory in Alberton

On May 28, 2024, Johannesburg K9 members received intelligence about a suspected drug laboratory operating from certain premises in Alberton.

Gauteng Police Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Tommy Mthombeni, has commended the members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) for their successful operation in dismantling an underground drug laboratory worth millions in Alberton on Friday. The operation resulted in the arrest of eight suspects.

Initial Information:

On May 28, 2024, Johannesburg K9 members received intelligence about a suspected drug laboratory operating from certain premises in Alberton.

The premises were observed over the following days, confirming illegal activities.

Preparation and Execution:

The police sought assistance from the National Counter Narcotics unit and obtained a search warrant from the Palm Ridge Magistrate's Court.

On Friday, at approximately 10:00 AM, the Johannesburg K9 and National Counter Narcotics units executed the search warrant at the identified premises.

Findings:

Massive quantities of precursor chemicals for drug manufacturing, drug manufacturing equipment, and actual drugs were discovered.

Forensic Crime Scene Management, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, and the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority were called to the scene for further processing.

Arrests:

Eight suspects found at the premises were arrested.

The suspects are facing charges of dealing in drugs and contravening the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, Act 140 of 1992.

Statements:

Commissioner Mthombeni's Commendation:

Lieutenant-General Mthombeni praised the diligence, patience, and execution of the search warrant by the team.

"This discovery and subsequent arrest of these alleged drug dealers and traffickers will have a positive impact on the streets of Gauteng. These suspects' criminal dealings have been disrupted and we have definitely hit them hard in the pockets," said Mthombeni.

The dismantling of this drug laboratory is a significant achievement for the Gauteng police, reflecting their commitment to tackling drug trafficking and its associated crimes. The operation's success underscores the importance of intelligence-led policing and inter-departmental cooperation in combating organized crime.