JOHANNESBURG – An attempt to smuggle drugs into Leeuwkop Maximum Correctional Centre in Gauteng was foiled when officials intercepted a stash of contraband, including Mandrax tablets, crystal methamphetamine and cannabis.

On Sunday, 13 September, officials conducting routine security screening at the facility’s access control gate intercepted a quantity of contraband concealed inside a radio brought to the centre during a scheduled visitation.

According to the Department of Correctional Services statement, the discovery was made during thorough searches conducted on visitors and all items presented for entry into the facility.

“Upon inspection, officials uncovered 140 Mandrax tablets, 32 grams of crystal methamphetamine and 216 grams of cannabis hidden inside the radio,” the statement read.

In addition, it stated that the swift detection of the contraband prevented the illicit substances from entering the correctional environment and reaching offenders, “thereby safeguarding the security, order and rehabilitation programmes within the facility.”

In line with established security protocols, the South African Police Service (SAPS) was immediately notified.

“The four individuals involved were detained at the centre and subsequently handed over to SAPS together with the confiscated drugs for further processing and investigation,” said the statement.

The statement added that the incident serves as a reminder of the persistent attempts by criminal elements to undermine the correctional system through the smuggling of prohibited items.

“It also highlights the critical role played by correctional officials, whose alertness and commitment to security continue to prevent contraband from entering correctional facilities.”

The Department of Correctional Services remains resolute in its efforts to combat the smuggling of contraband and to maintain safe, secure and rehabilitation-focused correctional centres.

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