A concerted intelligence-driven operation conducted by the SAPS Counter Narcotics unit, in collaboration with Organized Crime and Crime Prevention units, has resulted in the arrest of a key suspect allegedly involved in the large-scale dealing and distribution of drugs across the Eastern Cape and other provinces.
The operation, executed on the morning of 01 April 2026, followed a thorough investigation initiated after the office received information regarding a foreign national believed to be orchestrating drug distribution from a base in Quigney, KuGompo, Eastern Cape.
During the early hours of the operation, members of Crime Prevention intercepted a white Toyota Corolla in the vicinity of the King Phalo Airport.
The vehicle’s occupants were searched and found to be in possession of narcotics.Subsequent to the stop, officers proceeded to a flat at Kennaway Court in Quigney.
The primary suspect granted consent for a search of the premises, where a substantial quantity of drugs and a significant amount of cash were discovered.
The combined street value of the seized drugs is estimated at approximately R19,311,000. The exhibits seized include:· Boss Mandrax tablets: R1,240,000· Cocaine: R18,000,000· Rock/Crack: R18,000· Crystal Meth (TIK): R13,000In addition to the narcotics, investigators confiscated R77, 340 in cash believed to be proceeds of illicit activities.
Two suspects, a 47-year-old male foreign national and a 36 year old female were arrested and are currently detained.
“This successful operation is a testament to the effectiveness of our intelligence-driven approach and the seamless collaboration between our specialized units,” said the Provincial Commissioner of Eastern Cape, Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata.
“We are sending a clear message that the long arm of the law will reach those who seek to poison our communities with illicit drugs, regardless of the scale of their operation.”
The suspects are expected to appear in the KuGompo Magistrate’s Court soon to face charges of possession and dealing in drugs. Investigations are ongoing.
BY LUCKY SEANEGO
