Cape Town – Police in Mpumalanga have confirmed the permanent shutdown of a multimillion-rand drug laboratory discovered in Volksrust last month.
The illegal operation was uncovered after residents reported a strong chemical smell coming from a farm in the area.
According to provincial Hawks spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi, officers moved in after weeks of surveillance.
“All chemicals and equipment used during the illegal activities will be disposed of. The disposal will bring a complete shutdown to the illegal operation that poses danger to citizens,” Nkosi stated.
During the operation, six suspects — five Mexican nationals and one South African caretaker — were arrested. As reported by authorities, the local suspect was granted bail of R50,000, while the five foreign nationals opted not to apply for bail.
#sapsHAWKS Mpumalanga: Decommissioning and cleaning of a multi-million clandestine drug laboratory in Volksrust is expected to be finalised on Friday, 31/10.
The clandestine drug laboratory was uncovered by the police after receiving information about the unpleasant smell in the… pic.twitter.com/DsMPTGMUR9
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) October 29, 2025
Police revealed that the laboratory had the capacity to produce drugs worth hundreds of millions of rand. Investigations into the supply chain and key figures behind the operation are still underway.
As stated by Hawks provincial head Major General Nico Gerber, “We are leaving no stone unturned until we get the masterminds behind this illegal operation. The work does not stop here.”
The site has since been declared a health hazard and is being cleaned up under police supervision to ensure all remaining substances are safely destroyed.
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Compiled by Lisabeal Nqamqhele
