Three suspects were arrested for alleged drug-trafficking in Leslie on Tuesday during a multi-disciplined operation led by the Hawks, Middelburg K9 Unit and National Crime Intelligence.

According to a media statement, the arrest was made after a call was received about three accused who allegedly bought drugs (heroin and rock cocaine) in Springs, Gauteng, to be transported to Mpumalanga driving a gold Toyota Corolla.

The team conducted an intelligence-driven operation that led to the discovery of the vehicle at 20:30 on Tuesday on the R29 Leslie Road.

Upon searching the vehicle, 2100 pieces of heroin and 267 pieces of rock cocaine were found concealed behind the cabin and inside the gears. The Toyota Corolla which was used during the commission of the crime was also confiscated with total value of R186 000.

The trio were immediately arrested and charged for contravening the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act.

Ndumiso Hlongwane (30), Mthenjwa Zondo (25) and Sbusiso Mazibuko (40) appeared before the Leslie Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 12 April and the case was postponed to 17 April for verification of the addresses.

The investigation continues.

The  Acting Provincial Head of the Hawks, Brigadier Gregory Gaillard, is appealing to the community of Mpumalanga to join the dedicated members of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Middelburg, who are working tirelessly to eradicate drugs in Nkangala District by providing information on drug dealers and premises.