The South African Police Service (SAPS) has reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug-related crimes through targeted enforcement operations and forensic interventions. Speaking at the Drug Destruction event at the SAPS Forensic Science Laboratory in Cape Town on 07 March 2025, National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola highlighted the role SAPS plays in combating and dismantling illicit narcotic operations.
“The total estimated street value of the 800 kilograms of drugs being destroyed today exceeds R340 million,” said Masemola. “This marks our second visit to this plant in the last 12 months. A year ago, we destroyed R550 million worth of drugs at this very site.”
Masemola noted over the previous three years, SAPS has destroyed various types of narcotics worth R5.2 billion. “This includes drugs confiscated nationally during the 2022/2023 financial year, amounting to approximately 20.8 tons,” said the Commissioner. “In 2023/2024, we destroyed approximately 14.5 tons, and so far in 2024/2025, we have already destroyed 15.2 tons, excluding today’s destruction.”
Masemola underscored the recent victories against drug syndicates, stating “just this past week, police have recorded significant successes, including the discovery of an arms cache in Cape Town. Our anti-gang unit and crime intelligence officers seized 26 illegal firearms, including AK-47 automatic rifles and Uzis, as well as 50,000 Mandrax tablets. Two suspects have already appeared in court.”
In Gauteng, SAPS uncovered a drug manufacturing laboratory in Westonaria, valued at R10 million, resulting in two arrests. “Three drug traffickers were also arrested at OR Tambo International Airport in the past two weeks, with a combined R7.5 million worth of cocaine seized. In the last six months alone, over 20 traffickers have been arrested at this key transit hub.”
Masemola further noted a recent operation which uncovered R6 million worth of cocaine, disguised as hair products, at OR Tambo International Airport. “The shipment was en route from Brazil to France, using South Africa as a transit point. Our officers remain vigilant in disrupting these networks,” said Masemola.
The drug destruction process is conducted under strict regulatory oversight. “All drug exhibit materials approved for destruction undergo a thorough audit. The forensic chemistry section ensures that each exhibit is verified and complies with all prescribed standards before incineration,” Masemola explained.
The event also marked the destruction of drugs linked to significant cases, including the Swartkops case. “This case involved the seizure of 513 kilograms of pure cocaine, with an estimated street value of R220 million. Several suspects were arrested in Brazil in connection with this operation, highlighting SAPS’ role in global anti-drug initiatives.”
Masemola concluded by reaffirming SAPS’ dedication to eradicating the drug trade. “The safety and well-being of our communities remain our top priority. Through continued collaboration with international and local law enforcement agencies, we will ensure that drug trafficking networks are dismantled, and offenders brought to justice.”
The Commissioner extended his gratitude to all officers and community members who contribute to the fight against drugs, reinforcing that law enforcement remains relentless in its mission to create safer communities.
