Gqeberha drug bust: Police seize narcotics worth over R9m, suspect arrested

The police have seized suspected drugs worth more than R9.7 million in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape and a suspected was arrested.

Police have seized suspected drugs worth more than R9.7 million and arrested a 38-year-old man during an intelligence-driven operation in Rowallan Park, Gqeberha, as authorities intensify efforts to disrupt the illicit drug trade.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the seizure was made on Saturday during an operation conducted under OPERATION UKUBUZA, targeting organised crime.

Acting on intelligence, officers executed a search warrant at an identified address, where they found the suspect inside a vehicle parked in the garage.

A search of the vehicle uncovered suspected mandrax, cocaine and tik, along with drug-packaging materials and cash believed to be proceeds of crime, according to police.

“The suspected drug substances will be subjected to a forensic analysis to confirm its exact composition,” SAPS said in a statement.

The seizure represents a significant drug bust in the area, although the precise quantities and confirmed composition of the substances have yet to be established through forensic testing.

The 38-year-old suspect is expected to appear before the Gqeberha Magistrates’ Court on Monday to face drug-related charges. Police said investigations are continuing.

The arrest comes as SAPS maintains pressure on organised criminal networks involved in the illegal drug trade.

The police service has pledged to intensify operations aimed at disrupting these networks and tackling drug-related threats to community safety.