GRAVELOTTE — A major Mopani District drug bust has resulted in a R1.2 million Gravelotte dagga seizure, with two individuals now awaiting trial. The significant narcotics interception occurred after vigilant civilians discovered a suspicious vehicle, leading to the confiscation of 11 bags of the illicit substance and subsequent arrests.
The two suspects, aged 32 and 41, are scheduled to appear at the Namakgale Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 25 August 2026. They have been formally charged with dealing in dagga following their detention over the weekend.
The operation unfolded on Sunday, 23 August 2026, at approximately 10:00. Two private security guards were patrolling the R71 route connecting Gravelotte and Phalaborwa when they noticed a Toyota Corolla parked off the roadway adjacent to a bridge.
Operating under the assumption that the motorists might have been involved in a collision, the guards approached the vehicle to render aid. Instead, they uncovered five bags of dagga stashed inside the car. Recognizing the criminal nature of the find, the guards promptly notified the Gravelotte Police Station to intervene.
Upon arriving at the scene, law enforcement officers conducted an expanded search of the vicinity. Their investigation yielded an additional six bags of the drug cleverly hidden beneath the nearby bridge. In total, authorities confiscated 11 bags of dagga, carrying an estimated street value of R1.2 million.
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers, issued a statement praising the collaborative effort that led to the successful bust. He specifically commended the security guards for their exceptional vigilance and situational awareness, while also lauding the local police for their rapid, decisive response to the initial tip-off.
The suspects remain in custody as legal preparations are finalized for their upcoming court appearance, where they will formally answer to the drug trafficking charges.
