The South African Police Service (SAPS), working in partnership with the Department of Correctional Services and private security companies, carried out successful search and seizure operations on 18 and 19 February 2026 in the Bushbuckridge area.

The coordinated, intelligence-driven operation targeted a number of randomly selected schools, including Hobo, Tamajane, Masana, Letshele, Sekhukhusa and Dutau, within the Bushbuckridge Local Municipality.

The operation formed part of SAPS’s ongoing efforts to combat drugs and other illicit activities in and around schools, with a focus on protecting learners and restoring safety within learning environments.

During the raids, some learners found in possession of dagga cooperated with law enforcement officials, leading police to the premises of suspected suppliers. Most of the dagga shown in circulated images was seized directly from these suppliers, who have since been arrested.

Police indicated that the operation was not only aimed at removing drugs from schools, but at dismantling the supply networks that target learners and operate within local communities.

The raids reflect a broader strategy by SAPS to disrupt criminal syndicates, strengthen school safety, and prevent young people from being drawn into drug-related activities.

Authorities have urged parents, educators and community members to work closely with law enforcement by reporting drug activity, supporting prevention programmes, and helping to create safer environments for children.

The operation marks a significant step in strengthening security in schools and reinforcing the message that criminal activity targeting learners will be met with decisive law enforcement action.