Westonaria: Two Men Arrested for Producing Mandrax and Kept in Custody

Westonarea – In the Westonarea Magistrate’s Court, Gauteng, two men have been charged with manufacturing the illegal drug Mandrax, violating the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act.

The defendants, 51-year-old Vusi Msimango and 49-year-old Happy Baloi, were apprehended in Bekkersdal during a search and seizure operation on Thursday, (6 February 2025).

On Monday, (10 March 2025), the duo appeared in court, where they were remanded in custody following the adjournment of their case.

The proceedings against Msimango and Baloi have been postponed until Monday, (17 March 2025), for a formal bail application.

On that day, around 07:00, members of the SA Police Service Provincial Organised Crime Gauteng Narcotics Section conducted a search at a property on Alwyn Street, Waterpan, Bekkersdal.

“Upon arrival, the homeowner [Msimango] opened the gate and voluntarily confessed to the [Hawks] members that he was involved in drug manufacturing,” recalled Warrant Officer Thatohatsi Mavimbela, the Hawks’ spokesperson in Gauteng.

“He led the officers to the back of the residence where they discovered two drug-pressing machines, various drugs (in tablet form), and powder.

“Mr. Msimango was subsequently arrested, and the area was secured.

“He also provided information regarding an individual who was supposed to deliver chemicals and powder used in the drug manufacturing process.”

The identified individual later arrived with the supplies and was taken into custody.

Warrant Officer Mavimbela noted that various exhibits were confiscated, including two Mandrax pressing machines, a large silver mixing pot, four plastic sealers, a bag containing steel pressing tools, a hydraulic jack, Mandrax tablets, and powder.

“The estimated value of the confiscated items and equipment exceeds R6 million,” disclosed Warrant Officer Mavimbela.

Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, the Provincial Head of the Hawks in Gauteng, commended the team for the successful operation.

“We appreciate the relentless commitment and prompt actions of our law enforcement officers,” stated Major General Kadwa.

“This operation represents a significant advancement in our ongoing battle against drug manufacturing and trafficking.

“We encourage relevant authorities, organizations, and members of the community to remain vigilant and support these efforts.”