The investigation first led officers to an address in South Crest, Alberton, where a search of the suspect’s premises and vehicle resulted in the seizure of an unlicensed firearm and over 7,000 Mandrax tablets worth more than R560,000.

Further inquiries led the team to the property in Vanderbijlpark, where they uncovered a fully operational drug laboratory.

The items seized included a tablet press, various chemicals, drug manufacturing equipment, and a quantity of Mandrax powder and tablets, with an estimated value of R500,000.

A 46-year-old suspect was arrested and is expected to appear in court this week on charges of possession, dealing, and manufacturing drugs.