Look! Durban Police Uncover Drug Lab While Raiding 11 Properties

KwaZulu-Natal police have launched a sweeping crackdown on an alleged drug syndicate operating across Durban, with 11 properties raided in a high-impact operation.

The disruptive operation — led by eThekwini Metropolitan Police Department, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), and South African Police Service Crime Intelligence — saw officers descend on suspected drug dens in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

11 Operations Targeted Across Durban

Authorities confirmed that multiple houses allegedly used for drug manufacturing, storage, and distribution were targeted in a coordinated strike across KwaZulu-Natal.

Suburbs placed under the spotlight include:

• Chatsworth
• Phoenix
• Quarry Heights

Chatsworth has reportedly been a key focus due to the high volume of narcotics allegedly circulating in the area.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Shocking Scandal: Mossel Bay Police Officer Granted Bail Amid 323 Fraud Charges

Major Drug Lab Uncovered in Umhlatuzana

Police have uncovered a drug lab in the Umhlatuzana area as part of the disruptive operations in Chatsworth.

The operation involves multiple units, including:

• DPCI
• SAPS STF
• SAPS Economic Infrastructure Task Team
• SAPS KZN Counter Narcotics
• SAPS KZN CI
• SARS Customs Dog Unit

Metro Police Drug Team, Tactical Support Unit, EITT, Trio Crimes, Business Forum Task Team, Special Projects, K9, and POP

Several suspects have been detained at the scene, including the property owner, who was previously arrested by the Metro Police Tactical Support Unit last year.

Authorities reportedly found drugs, firearms, and packaging materials inside the lab, though the exact quantities are still being determined.

Police believe this lab is one of the major suppliers for drug dealers in the surrounding area.

Months of Intelligence

Police say intelligence gathered over several months identified these locations as central hubs in a sophisticated drug network that had allegedly operated under the radar for years.

The raids were meticulously planned to catch suspects off guard, with coordinated strikes designed to minimise risks to residents while maximising the element of surprise.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: NCC Investigates Sanitary Pad Suppliers Over Toxic Chemical Claims

Eyewitnesses described tense scenes as armoured vehicles and specialised units blocked off streets while search warrants were executed.

In one of the raids in Phoenix, officers reportedly uncovered hidden compartments packed with contraband.

WATCH VIDEO BELOW:

Similar discoveries were made at other properties, painting a picture of what authorities believe to be a well-entrenched and organised operation.

Several arrests are expected as investigations continue.

This is a developing story.