One suspect was arrested and dagga worth R5m was seized when a vehicle was searched in Mbombela on Friday, March 27.

Members of the Mpumalanga police Anti-hijacking Task Team (AHTT) were conducting routine tracking and tracing operations in Mbombela when they received a tip-off at around 17:00.

Information provided referred to a Toyota Quantum minibus that was believed to be transporting illicit substances.

“Acting swiftly on the information, the team mobilised and, upon arrival, members of the AHTT discovered that the Mbombela Law Enforcement Intervention Team had already stopped the vehicle in the Mbombela CBD,” said Mpumalanga police spokesperson Captain Mpho Nonyane-Mpe.

When the vehicle was searched, dagga weighing 893.05kg, with an estimated value of R5m was discovered. In addition to the 25 bags of compressed dagga, police also confiscated R3 337 in cash.

“The 29-year-old driver was arrested and has been charged with possession and dealing in drugs,” said Nonyane-Mpe. “The vehicle used in the commission of the crime was also confiscated.”

The suspect is expected to appear in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court on Monday, March 30.