Tasbet man adds to provincial crime stats after being nabbed in possession of suspected drugs
The substance was taken to a laboratory for analysis as the man remains in custody.
During the search, officers found a small brown plastic wrap containing a powdery substance suspected to be drugs.
The man was arrested, and the substance was confiscated at the scene and sent to a laboratory for analysis to determine its type and quantity.
The suspect was taken into custody and is expected to appear in court once the investigation is finalised.
Although this arrest was not part of Operation Shanela II, the case reflects the broader challenge of drug-related crime in Mpumalanga.
Additionally, Operation Shanela II, conducted between January 1 and 4, achieved significant successes throughout the province.
During the operation, police arrested 92 suspects for possession of drugs and 14 for dealing, while large quantities of dagga, crystal meth, mandrax, and nyaope were seized.
Operation Shanela II also saw 226 premises searched, 5 954 persons screened, and 3 221 vehicles checked, alongside numerous roadblocks and patrols.
In addition to drug-related arrests, police recorded 15 arrests for murder, 37 for rape, 228 for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and 327 for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Contraband and counterfeit goods worth nearly R690 000 were confiscated, further disrupting criminal networks operating in the province.
Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended all stakeholders for their commitment, stating that the successes of Operation Shanela II demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-driven policing and strong partnerships with community structures.
General Mkhwanazi further emphasised that these results send a clear message that criminality in any form will not be tolerated in Mpumalanga.
“We remain resolute in our commitment to safeguarding our communities, protecting vulnerable persons, and ensuring that those who threaten the safety and stability of our province are brought to book,” said SAPS provincial spokesperson Sergeant Thulisile Magagula.
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