GAUTENG – On Tuesday, 08 September 2026, an intelligence-driven operation by Gauteng police led to the discovery of a significant hydroponic dagga laboratory in De Deur, resulting in the arrest of a 22-year-old Malawian national. The bust, executed in the Hartzenbergfontein area within the SAPS De Deur policing precinct of the Sedibeng District, uncovered an illicit cannabis cultivation operation with an estimated street value of R1.5 million.
According to Gauteng police officials, the successful raid was the result of coordinated efforts involving multiple specialized law enforcement units. Members of the Gauteng Counter-Intelligence Narcotics, Gauteng Organised Crime, West Rand K9, and the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) collaborated with private security companies to execute the operation.
The 22-year-old suspect was taken into custody at the scene. He is currently facing charges relating to the contravention of Sections 3 and 5(b) of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act 140 of 1992. Additionally, he is charged with contravening Section 49 of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002.
Police representatives confirmed that the suspect is expected to appear before the Vereeniging Magistrate’s Court soon. Authorities have stated that police investigations into the matter remain ongoing.
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