KRUGERSDORP – Five South African nationals arrested after police uncovered a suspected clandestine drug manufacturing laboratory at a farm in Hekpoort are expected to apply for bail on 21 October.

Five accused appeared in the Krugersdorp Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 12 October, following their arrest in connection with a suspected illicit drug manufacturing laboratory valued at an estimated R100 million in Hekpoort, near Krugersdorp, Gauteng.

The five face charges of manufacturing and dealing in illicit drugs after a multidisciplinary police operation uncovered the suspected laboratory at a farm last week.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the operation was led by the South African Narcotics Bureau of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), in collaboration with SAPS Crime Intelligence at national head office, the Special Task Force and the West Rand K9 Unit.

Police reportedly discovered quantities of Mandrax and ecstasy tablets at the premises.

The five South African nationals were arrested at the farm following the discovery.

The accused are expected to return to the same court on 21 October for a formal bail application.

Investigations into the suspected drug manufacturing operation are continuing.

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