Chatsworth Wife Joins Alleged Drug Lab Kingpin Husband In Court After Arrest

A Chatsworth mother of two joined her husband in the dock last week for alleged drug dealing.

Natalie Perumal, 32, made her first appearance alongside her husband, Gerald Perumal, in the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court after she was arrested by the Hawks on the morning of 5 March.

Her arrest came shortly before the couple appeared together in court in connection with a case involving an alleged drug manufacturing operation at their home.

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It was confirmed during court proceedings that the couple have two children aged 13 and two.

Gerald Perumal had earlier been arrested during a sting operation conducted by the Hawks and Metro Police at the couple’s home in 28th Avenue.

Drugs, Chemicals and Equipment Allegedly Found During Chatsworth Raid

During the raid, law enforcement officers reportedly seized drugs including cocaine and mandrax.

Investigators also confiscated chemicals, packaging materials, manufacturing equipment, cash, cellphones, firearms and ammunition valued at approximately R1 million.

A large number of bottles of Stilpane were also found at the property.

Lighting equipment allegedly belonging to the eThekwini Municipality was also seized during the operation.

Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Sibu Ncane confirmed Natalie Perumal’s arrest.

“The Hawks can confirm that Natalie Perumal was arrested by the Hawks and charged with dealing in drugs. Police investigations are continuing and outcomes will determine whether additional arrests are necessary,” said Ncane.

Investigations into Gerald Perumal reportedly began in 2023.

Authorities also allege that he attempted to flush drugs down the toilet when officers arrived at the property.

Four other individuals who were at the residence at the time — including Perumal’s father-in-law, a gardener and two men believed to be tenants in an outbuilding — were detained for questioning but later released without being arrested.

The defence told the court that drug-related evidence valued at about R500 000 was allegedly discovered in an outbuilding and not inside the main house where the couple lived with their children and father-in-law.

Community Voices Concern Over Drug Trade in Bayview

Investigators believe Gerald Perumal may be linked to drug cartels operating in Bayview and allegedly supplying drugs to Chatsworth and surrounding areas.

The couple are expected to return to court this week for their formal bail application.

Their attorney, Noven Naidoo, said his clients intend to plead not guilty to the charges.

A community leader, who asked not to be named, said the couple’s children are currently in the care of family members.

He also raised concerns about alleged corruption and the continued drug problem in the area.

“Community leaders have had discussions and concerns were raised that certain drug dealers are never caught or investigated by police.

“Information is fed to police by rival drug dealers and this leads to some arrests. It is no secret that some law enforcement officers are on the payroll of certain drug dealers and are targeting their rivals.

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“We urge police top brass to investigate the kingpins to rid our communities of drugs,” the community leader said.

The Bayview Community Policing Forum (CPF) said residents should continue working with law enforcement to fight drug-related crime.

“Community cooperation is one of the most powerful tools in combating drug-related crime. When communities stand together and report suspicious activities, we strengthen the collective fight against those who seek to harm our neighbourhood.

“We are particularly concerned about the minor children and the effects this has on them, as the couple involved in this incident had young children living in the home.

“We welcome the arrests. This operation represents a significant step in the ongoing fight against the scourge of drugs that continues to threaten the safety, stability, and future of our communities.

“Drug peddling destroys families, fuels violent crime, exploits vulnerable individuals, and robs our youth of their potential. The removal of these illegal substances and the arrest of those responsible sends a powerful message that criminal networks will not be allowed to operate freely within our communities.

“We applaud the dedication, courage, and professionalism of the SAPS, Hawks, Metro Police, and all agencies involved in this operation. Their work demonstrates the importance of decisive action and intelligence-driven policing in protecting our residents,” the CPF said.