The South African Police Service (SAPS) has discovered another drug laboratory in Limpopo, where the illegal manufacturing of mandrax was carried out.

A joint operation conducted by the Limpopo Provincial Organised Crime Unit, Limpopo Provincial Flying Squad, and Lebowakgomo SAPS discovered the facility at Makotse Village in Lebowakgomo on 29 September 2024. The operation resulted in the seizure of drugs valued at approximately R4 million and the arrest of three suspects aged between 25 and 33.

The suspects were apprehended during an ongoing crackdown operation aimed at dismantling drug networks in the province. Police discovered a significant quantity of mandrax at one of the suspects’ residences and located the nearby drug manufacturing lab, along with various chemicals and substances used in production of the illegal narcotic.

The SAPS Forensic Science Laboratory has been dispatched to investigate the drug lab further. Security measures will remain in place at the site until the investigation is completed.

Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Major General Samuel Manala, commended the collaborative efforts of the various law enforcement agencies involved in this operation.

The suspects appeared before the Thabamoopo Magistrate’s Court on 30 September, facing charges of possession and dealing in drugs. Their case has been postponed until 7 October 2024, for a formal bail application.