Westonarea – Two men arrested for manufacturing the illicit drug Mandrax have appeared in the Westonarea Magistrate’s Court, Gauteng, for the contravention of the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act.
The accused, 51-year-old Vusi Msimango and 49-year-old Happy Baloi were arrested in Bekkersdal during a search and seizure operation on Thursday, (6 February 2025).
On Monday, (10 March 2025), the pair appeared in court, where they were remanded in custody after their matter was adjourned.
The case against Msimango and Baloi was adjourned to Monday, (17 March 2025), for a formal bail application.
Allegations were that during a search and seizure operation on that fateful day at about 07:00 members from the SA Police Service Provincial Organised Crime Gauteng Narcotics Section pounced at a plot in Alwyn Street, Waterpan, Bekkersdal.
“Upon arrival, the owner of the house [Msimango], opened the gate and voluntarily informed the [Hawks] members that he was manufacturing drugs,” recalled Spokesperson for the Hawks in Gauteng, Warrant Officer Thatohatsi Mavimbela.
“He led the members to the back of the house where two drug-pressing machines, drugs (tablets), and powder were found.
“Mr. Msimango was placed under arrest and the scene was secured.
“He then disclosed information about an individual who was due to supply chemicals and powder used to manufacture the drugs.”
The identified individual subsequently arrived with the supplies and was arrested.
Warrant Officer Mavimbela said the exhibits, including two Mandrax pressing machines, a big silver mixing pot, four plastic sealers, a bag with steel pressing utensils, a hydraulic jack, Mandrax tablets, and powder were confiscated.
“The estimated value of the exhibits and seized equipment is over R6 million rands,” revealed Warrant Officer Mavimbela.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks in Gauteng Major General Ebrahim Kadwa has commended the team for a successful operation.
“We commend the unwavering dedication and swift action of our law enforcement officers,” said Major General Kadwa.
“This operation serves as a significant step in our continuous efforts to combat drug manufacturing and trafficking.
“We call upon relevant authorities, organizations, and community members to stay informed and support these efforts.”
