Fully operational drug lab discovered in Vanderbijlpark

VANDERBIJLPARK - A 46-year-old suspect was arrested on Friday, 14 March 2025, following a major drug bust in Vanderbijlpark. The arrest was part of a cross-border operation involving the Western Cape Organised Crime Investigations and the Head Office Narcotics team. During a search in South Crest, Alberton, authorities seized over 7,000 mandrax tablets valued at R560,000 and an unlicensed firearm. Further investigation led to the discovery of a fully operational drug lab in Vanderbijlpark, where police uncovered mandrax powder, tablets, a tablet press, and various chemicals, totaling an estimated value of R500,000. The operation has resulted in the confiscation of drugs and equipment worth approximately R1.5-million, marking it as one of the largest drug busts in Gauteng this year. The suspect is expected to face charges of drug manufacturing and trafficking in court soon.