HOEDSPRUIT – Police have arrested three suspected drug traffickers and seized a large consignment of dagga valued at an estimated R11 million during an intelligence-driven operation near Hoedspruit.

Police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the operation was carried out by members of Hoedspruit SAPS and Farm Watch between Saturday night and the early hours of Sunday, May 31.

Acting on information about a suspected drug shipment moving through the area, officers intercepted two vehicles on the R527 near Snake Park at about 21:15.

During a search of the vehicles, police discovered 130 bags of dagga.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the consignment originated in Eswatini and was being transported through Limpopo for distribution elsewhere in South Africa.

Three suspects, aged between 34 and 35, were arrested on charges of dealing in dagga.

The operation also resulted in the arrest of three people for allegedly urinating in public and one suspect for the use of dagga.

As part of broader crime-prevention efforts, operational teams conducted patrols in three villages and 10 farms, while also carrying out visibility operations at an airport, four banking institutions and six ATMs.

The suspects are expected to appear before the Hoedspruit Magistrate’s Court today (Monday).

Police investigations are continuing.