The South African Police Service in Mpumalanga has arrested a 36-year-old man from the Kingdom of Eswatini after 30 kilograms of dagga, valued at around R90 000, were discovered in his vehicle during a festive-season safety operation.

The arrest took place on Sunday, 7 December, along the N17 Oshoek road between Ermelo and Chrissiesmeer. Officers stopped and searched a vehicle during an Operation Safer Festive Season patrol, uncovering multiple packages of dagga concealed inside.

The suspect, identified as Sabelo Terrence Ndzabukelwako, was taken into custody and charged with possession of dagga. He appeared in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 8 December, where he was granted bail of R2 000. His next court appearance is scheduled for 25 February 2026.

Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, said 

“We are pleased with the success of this operation and the efforts of our members in preventing and combating crime. We urge communities to report information on drug dealing or any criminal activities so that together we can build a safer environment, especially during the festive season,” he said.