Four suspects were arrested after police uncovered what they described as a multimillion-rand Mandrax manufacturing laboratory at a plot in Scheerpoort, near Hartbeespoort Dam, yesterday (October 6).

Police officers also seized four firearms, including a rifle and three handguns, during the intelligence-driven operation, reports Pretoria Rekord.

According to police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh, Hartbeespoort Dam SAPS Crime Prevention members received information about suspected illegal activities at the property.

The information was shared with Brits Crime Intelligence and the Hartbeespoort Dam K9 unit for further intelligence gathering and verification.

A search uncovered processed drugs, a drug production mixture and equipment allegedly used to manufacture drugs.

In a further update, SAPS identified the suspected laboratory as a facility believed to be used for the illicit manufacture of Mandrax.

Although police described it as a multimillion-rand operation, the quantity of drugs and their estimated street value were still being determined.

The suspects, a 39-year-old man and three women aged between 23 and 29, were arrested and charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as dealing in and manufacturing drugs.

They are expected to appear in the Brits Magistrate’s Court soon.

North West provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams attended the scene to oversee the operation.

He commended members for their swift response and cooperation, saying police remained committed to dismantling organised crime syndicates involved in manufacturing and distributing drugs.

Police investigations are continuing.

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