The high-profile R1 billion drug lab case in Swartruggens, North West, has widened dramatically after the Hawks confirmed that 13 suspects are now linked to the massive alleged criminal operation.
The development comes after two farm owners handed themselves over to police, joining the 11 suspects who appeared in court again today in connection with the case.
According to the Hawks, the farm owners have been charged with:
* Drug manufacturing
* Illegal possession of precious metals
* Illegal possession of hazardous chemicals
Authorities say further investigations uncovered additional immigration-related concerns involving several accused persons.
The Hawks revealed that one Zimbabwean national, three Mozambican nationals, and one Mexican national were allegedly in South Africa illegally. As a result, additional charges relating to the contravention of the Immigration Act have now been added to the case.
The accused appeared before the Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court, where the matter was postponed to 12 June 2026 for formal bail applications.
The court also heard that interpreters are required for the Mexican, Mozambican, and Zimbabwean accused as proceedings continue.
The case has attracted national attention after law enforcement agencies uncovered what is believed to be one of the biggest clandestine drug manufacturing operations in South African history, with the estimated value of the operation standing at approximately R1 billion.
The operation involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Hawks, Crime Intelligence, and specialised units investigating organised crime and narcotics operations.
Investigators are continuing with extensive forensic and intelligence-driven investigations, and authorities have indicated that more arrests could still follow as the probe deepens.
The case is expected to return to court on 12 June 2026.