Police operations in various provinces of South Africa have led to the confiscation and subsequent destruction of drugs worth R500 million.
The drugs, which included cocaine, heroin, Mandrax, and cannabis, were seized during operations in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Free State, Gauteng, North West, and Mpumalanga. Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a police spokesperson, confirmed the successful drug busts.
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This recent drug destruction process marks the fifth one in the current financial year. In total, over R1 billion worth of drugs have been destroyed in this period alone.
The previous financial year, 2022/2023, saw the seizure and destruction of 20 tons of drugs worth R2 billion.
Highlighting some specific drug busts, Mathe mentioned that from October last year to date, four significant drug consignments were intercepted.
Three of these busts occurred in Durban, while one took place in Gqeberha. The total value of the seized cocaine in these operations exceeded R365 million.
The most recent bust occurred at the Durban harbor on December 4. During the operation, 33 blocks of cocaine, worth R151 million, were discovered hidden in meat boxes. Other successful operations at the Durban harbor included the seizure of 700kg of cannabis worth R21 million, 530kg of cocaine worth R185 million, and 223kg of Fenethylline tablets worth R17.5 million. Fenethylline is a nervous system stimulant.
Additionally, recent police operations in the Eastern Cape and Western Cape resulted in the seizure of drugs worth R90 million.
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These successful drug busts and subsequent destruction of drugs demonstrate the commitment of the South African police force in combating drug trafficking and ensuring public safety. The efforts made in intercepting and destroying these illegal substances contribute to the ongoing fight against drug-related crimes in the country.
