Four suspects were arrested and four firearms seized after police uncovered a drug laboratory at a plot in Scheerpoort, near Hartbeespoortdam, on Tuesday 6 October.

Hartbeespoortdam police Crime Prevention members received information about suspected illegal activities at the property and shared the tip-off with Brits Crime Intelligence and Hartbeespoortdam K9 for further intelligence gathering and verification.

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On arrival at the identified address, members found three women and one man. A search of the premises uncovered what appeared to be a drug laboratory, with processed drugs, a drug production mixture and equipment allegedly used in the manufacturing of drugs.

Four firearms, including a rifle and three handguns, were seized.

The suspects — a 39-year-old Zimbabwean national and three women aged between 23 and 29 — were arrested and charged with possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, as well as dealing in and manufacturing of drugs in terms of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act.

The suspects are expected to appear before the Brits Magistrates’ Court soon.

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Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams, commended members for their swift response and collaboration. He said the police remain committed to dismantling organised crime syndicates involved in the manufacturing and distribution of drugs, and sent a stern warning to criminals that the South African Police Service remains resolute and relentless in the fight against crime.

Police investigations into the matter, and to determine the value of the seized drugs, are continuing.