Five accused in R600 million Musina drug laboratory to appear in court on Thursday
Five people linked to an alleged clandestine drug laboratory uncovered on a farm in Musina are to appear in the Musina Magistrates’ Court following their arrest during a high-impact intelligence-driven operation.
The accused are two Mexican nationals, Verdogo Marioano Barrera, 48, and Leon Castilo Juan, 39, as well as three Zimbabwean nationals, Nyamukanga Tichaona Roy, 23, Mabayi Lee, 35, and Nyamukanga Tanaka Royce, 20.
They face charges including manufacturing a scheduled substance, dealing in drugs, possession of drugs, money laundering and contravention of the Immigration Act.
The five were arrested on 20 August 2026 during an operation at Plot 19, Kamkusi Campbell, in Musina.
The operation was led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, in collaboration with various South African Police Service units.
According to the allegations, law enforcement officials uncovered a clandestine laboratory allegedly being used to manufacture crystal methamphetamine.
Drugs and laboratory equipment with an estimated street value of approximately R600 million were allegedly seized during the operation, along with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Investigators allege that the drugs were destined for distribution.
All five suspects were arrested at the scene and remain in custody.
Their first court appearance was brief on 21 August 2026, the matter was postponed to allow arrangements to be made for language interpreters.
The investigation into the alleged drug manufacturing operation is continuing.
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