Gauteng Police Uncover Major Drug Lab in Douglasdale, Seize Drugs Worth R80 Million

In addition to the drug production equipment and chemicals, authorities also found two unlicensed firearms, high-caliber ammunition, pellet guns, and replica firearms at the site.

Gauteng police have uncovered a major drug laboratory in Douglasdale, Johannesburg, containing drugs and processing machinery estimated at R80 million. The discovery was made by the Organised Crime Unit and Police Emergency Service (PES) Flexi Team.

In addition to the drug production equipment and chemicals, authorities also found two unlicensed firearms, high-caliber ammunition, pellet guns, and replica firearms at the site. Two illegal immigrants were arrested at the premises.

According to the police statement, the lab was identified through diligent observation of suspicious activities. A search warrant executed on Thursday morning revealed that the premises was being used to manufacture drugs. The police recovered chemicals, machinery, and finished drug products during the raid.

Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, praised the team for their efforts. “In the last five months alone, we have discovered more than ten drug labs in Gauteng. This demonstrates our ongoing commitment to identifying and dismantling these illegal operations,” he said.

The arrested individuals are set to appear in the local Magistrate's Court, facing charges including drug manufacturing, possession of unlicensed firearms, and possession of ammunition.