Hawks dismantle clandestine drug manufacturing laboratory

The Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in Gauteng, Major General Ebrahim Kadwa commended the investigation team for a sterling job where two suspects were apprehended and a clandestine drug manufacturing laboratory dismantled in Linksfield on Friday.

The Johannesburg Flying Squad, K9 together with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) intercepted a vehicle with one occupant reportedly speeding around the Linksfield area.

Upon searching the vehicle, authorities found packets of dagga. They proceeded to a house nearby where the suspect reportedly purchased the dagga from. At the premises, the investigation team discovered a fully operational illicit hydroponic cannabis manufacturing laboratory, with chemicals, industrial fans, gas heaters, and a dagga plantation.

The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation in Germiston swiftly responded to the crime scene. The Dagga, chemicals, and equipment all with an estimated street value of R2 million were seized for further investigation.

Gregory Isaac (34) appeared in the Germiston’s Magistrate’s Court today for illegal possession and dealing in drugs. He was released on an R10 000 bail. The case was postponed to 27 July 2022. The charges against the speeding motorists were provisionally withdrawn pending the ongoing investigation.

Major General Kadwa applauded the swift action that led to the discovery and dismantling of the illicit drug laboratory. “Criminals are using any opportunity available to illegally produce illicit drugs, be it small holdings residence, plots, farms, or industrial areas. We urge citizens to report any suspected criminal activities related to illegal production of drugs within our communities”, Major General Kadwa added.