JOHANNESBURG: Three smugglers were arrested and R2m worth of Mandrax tablets were seized south of Johannesburg, the Hawks said here the other day.
Spokesperson Hangwani Mulaudzi said that a joint operation between the Hawks and the Johannesburg flying squad led members to a drug lab in Wadeville on Tuesday.
“Two suspects were allegedly found busy manufacturing and pressing Mandax tablets. One was arrested at the scene while the other managed to escape,” he said.
Chemicals, equipment, a delivery vehicle, Mandrax tablets and powder, was seized.
“Further investigations led the police to an address in Mulbarton where the alleged ringleader was arrested with another accomplice.”
Drug-making chemicals and “powder believed to be drugs” was discovered on the property.
The three suspects, aged between 26 and 35, would appear in court soon.
Police were searching for the fourth person.
