Johannesburg – The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), through an intelligence-driven joint operation involving the Tactical Response Unit (TRU), CCTV Crime Analysis and Tracing Team (CATT), and supporting units, has successfully raided a hijacked residential property in Houghton being used as a drug packaging and distribution centre.
During the operation, officers recovered:
• A significant quantity of prescription cough syrup containing codeine (Schedule 5 controlled substance, not available over the counter)
• Processed dagga with an estimated street value of approximately R2 million
Investigations indicate that the seized narcotics were packaged and prepared for transport to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, using cross-border buses and light delivery vehicles operated by informal couriers, commonly known as “Malayisha.”
Eight suspects were apprehended on charges relating to possession and dealing in illicit drugs, as well as the illegal occupation of a hijacked property. Further inquiries revealed that tenants were paying rent into a bank account registered under an unknown name.
MMC for Public Safety, Dr. Mgcini Tshwaku, commended the officers involved, stating:
“This operation underscores our steadfast commitment to dismantling criminal syndicates exploiting hijacked properties for drug trafficking. Lawlessness in any form will not be tolerated in the City of Johannesburg. Additional raids are planned as investigations continue. The JMPD encourages members of the public with information regarding hijacked properties or drug-related activities to contact the JMPD at 011 758 9650.”