DE DEUR – A sophisticated hydroponic dagga laboratory with an estimated street value of R1.5 million has been uncovered by Gauteng police in Hartzenbergfontein, De Deur.

A 22-year-old Malawian national was arrested during an intelligence-driven operation on Tuesday, 8 September, after police descended on the suspected drug-production facility in the Sedibeng District.

The operation brought together Gauteng Counter-Intelligence Narcotics, Gauteng Organised Crime, the West Rand K9 Unit, the Forensic Science Laboratory and private security companies.

Police said the suspect faces charges under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act and the Immigration Act.

He is expected to appear in the Vereeniging Magistrates’ Court soon.

The investigation remains under way as police work to establish the full extent of the alleged operation.

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