FIVE SUSPECTS ARRESTED IN MPUMALANGA DRUG BUST WORTH OVER R300,000

VOLKRUST, MPUMALANGA – Two Nigerian nationals and three South African citizens have been arrested in Volkrust, near Standerton, after drugs with an estimated street value of more than R305,000 were confiscated during a Hawks-led operation on Friday, 15 August 2025.

The joint operation was carried out by the Hawks’ Secunda-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit in collaboration with the Standerton K9 Unit and two private security companies. The arrests followed a period of close surveillance and the execution of a search warrant at multiple residences in the area.

At the first house, a 30-year-old undocumented Nigerian national was found in possession of Mandrax, Crystal Meth, and two weighing scales. Further investigation led authorities to a second address, where another undocumented Nigerian national, aged 43, was also arrested after being caught with similar drugs.

The probe extended to a third residence where three South Africans, aged between 33 and 43, were arrested after Mandrax and Crystal Meth were seized. All five suspects now face charges of dealing in drugs.

According to the Hawks, the Department of Home Affairs will be brought in to investigate additional charges relating to contravention of the Immigration Act for the foreign nationals.

Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, Major General Nico Gerber, commended the operation, stressing that the battle against drugs remains a priority for law enforcement.

“Drugs are a serious problem in this area, and we have intensified our operations against this scourge,” said General Gerber. “The Hawks will continue to disrupt drug syndicates, and we urge communities to come forward with information. All tip-offs will be treated confidentially.”

The suspects are expected to appear before the Volkrust Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 18 August 2025.