MTHATHA – Siyamcela Mpukuzela (37), an alleged drug runner linked to a broader drug distribution network, was arrested on 15 May after a multi-disciplinary police operation in Mthatha uncovered mandrax tablets, crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “tik”, and cash believed to be proceeds of drug trafficking activities in his possession.
The suspect is expected to make his first appearance in the Mthatha Magistrate’s Court on 18 May.
According to Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, the operation comprised members of the Mthatha Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Tactical Response Team (TRT), Mthatha Drug Task Team (DTT), Madeira SAPS, and the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) Provincial Task Team.
ALSO READ: Mthatha attorney sentenced for theft of R780 000 in trust funds
He said the operation followed a disruptive operation conducted on 14 May at Bridge Street near the Sibangweni Taxi Rank.
The Sibangweni Taxi Rank is a prominent transport hub located in the Eastern Cape along the N2 highway between Mthatha and Tsolo.
According to Mhlakuvana, the area had been identified through ongoing intelligence analysis as a strategic hotspot for the distribution of illicit substances.
During the operation, police arrested Mpukuzela, who was allegedly found in possession of mandrax tablets and crystal methamphetamine, commonly known as “tik”.
“The arrest marked a critical turning point in the investigation, as further intelligence gathering and interrogation processes allegedly linked the suspect to a higher-ranking figure believed to be operating within a broader drug distribution network,” he said.
“Information received further suggested that the alleged supplier was also reportedly in possession of an unlicensed firearm, thereby escalating the operational risk and urgency of intervention,” he added.
Mhlakuvana said a coordinated operational team was mobilised and proceeded to the Sibangweni Taxi Rank precinct, where members successfully traced and intercepted the suspect along Delville Road while he was driving a black Toyota Starlet.
He further noted that a vehicle search was conducted in pursuit of the alleged firearm; however, no firearm was recovered during the initial search.
During the operation, intelligence information indicated that narcotics were being stored at the suspect’s residential premises in Yellowood Street, Hillcrest, Mthatha.
“In adherence to constitutional and procedural compliance, the police immediately executed an authorised search and seizure warrant at the premises,” he said.
“Upon searching the residence, the joint team confiscated approximately 795 full mandrax tablets and an additional five mandrax pieces, with an estimated street value exceeding R39 870,” he revealed.
He added that police also confiscated four small plastic packets containing crystal methamphetamine, weighing approximately 0.190 grams, with an estimated value exceeding R7 600, as well as cash amounting to R60 000 suspected to be proceeds generated through illicit drug distribution activities.
ALSO READ: Four men nabbed after courier van hijacking in Butterworth
