Hidden Drug Lab Uncovered in Vanderbijlpark, 7,000 Mandrax Tablets Confiscated by Authorities

Johannesburg – Police have discovered a secret drug lab in Vanderbijlpark, seizing illicit drugs and manufacturing equipment valued at over a million rand.

According to police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, the drug lab was raided on Friday, March 14, 2025.

“During this operation, over a million rand worth of Mandrax and drug manufacturing equipment were seized, and a 46-year-old suspect was arrested,” Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk stated.

Describing the events leading up to the drug bust, the police spokesperson mentioned that extensive investigations were conducted by a multi-disciplinary team.

This team comprised detectives from various units, including the Western Cape OCI, Head Office Narcotics, Gauteng Narcotics, West Rand K9 Unit, Garden Route District Crime Intelligence, and the Western Cape Drone Unit.

The team acted on intelligence regarding a wanted suspect connected to a drug trafficking case in De Rust, Western Cape.

“The investigation led officers to an address in South Crest, Alberton, where a search of the suspect’s home and vehicle yielded an unlicensed firearm and more than 7,000 Mandrax tablets valued at over R560,000,” Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk reported.

“Further inquiries took the team to a location in Vanderbijlpark, where they discovered a fully functional drug manufacturing facility.

“Seized items included a tablet press, various chemicals, equipment for drug production, as well as Mandrax powder and tablets estimated to be worth R500,000.”

The suspect is set to appear in court next week facing charges of drug possession, dealing, and manufacturing.