Crystal Meth Lab Busted, Five Foreigners Arrested

Police in Mpumalanga have scored a major victory in the fight against drug trafficking after dismantling a crystal methamphetamine laboratory worth an estimated R350 million in Volksrust. The bust occurred on Friday, 19 September 2025, under Operation Shanela 2, officials confirmed. 

Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the team for their rapid response following a tip-off about suspicious activity at a farm in Oudehoutkloof, Volksrust, notably a strange chemical smell. 

When officers arrived, the gates were locked, and several suspects attempted to flee on foot. However, five foreign nationals—reportedly from a North American country—were caught immediately. Two others, believed to be from West African nations, managed to escape into nearby bushes. 

A search of the premises uncovered large quantities of precursor chemicals for drug manufacturing, specialised equipment, and crystal meth hidden in lunch boxes and buckets stored in freezers. Officials also found a pellet gun loaded with blanks, and three live 9mm rounds were recovered from the South African farm caretaker. 

The arrested suspects are expected to face charges under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, the Immigration Act, and, in the caretaker’s case, for ammunition possession. The scene has been handed over to the Hawks after forensic teams processed the evidence. 

Major General Mkhwanazi described the operation as proof of the power of intelligence-driven policing and community cooperation. He urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activity, saying the police will “stop at nothing in our quest to collapse the illicit drug trade.”