Police have dismantled a massive drug manufacturing operation worth an estimated R350 million after raiding a Volksrust farm on Friday. The raid uncovered a large-scale crystal methamphetamine laboratory and led to the arrest of five foreign nationals.

The bust followed swift action by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, who responded to a community tip-off about strong chemical odours from the property. A multidisciplinary team, including the Department of Home Affairs, was deployed.

On arrival, officers found the farm gates locked. When police moved in, the suspects tried to flee on foot but were quickly caught. Two suspects, believed to be from West Africa, escaped into the nearby bush and remain at large.

Inside the premises, police found precursor chemicals, industrial drug equipment, and packaged crystal meth hidden in lunch boxes and buckets inside freezers. A pellet gun with blanks and three live 9mm rounds were also discovered.

The farm caretaker, a South African national, was arrested for unlawful possession of ammunition. The five suspects in custody – foreign nationals from a North American country – were found to be in South Africa illegally. They face multiple charges under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act and the Immigration Act.

The case has been handed to the Hawks for further investigation.

Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, praised the operation. “This demonstrates the results of cooperation between police and other entities. Dismantling a clandestine lab is a major step forward. We also thank community members who provide valuable information to law enforcement.”

All six suspects are expected to appear in court soon.

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