KZN Tactical Response Team Arrests Two in Massive Drug Bust

In a decisive operation highlighting ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crimes in KwaZulu-Natal, the Pinetown Tactical Response Team (TRT) alongside members of the Ethekwini District Crime Intelligence executed a well-coordinated raid in Phoenix on Tuesday, 23 December 2023.

The operation, resulting in the arrest of two men, underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in curbing the drug trade in the region.

Acting on credible intelligence, the TRT arrived at a premises situated on Gillham Avenue, Westham, where they encountered a significant security presence, including ten heavily armed guards. This strongly fortified site indicated the severity of the operation they were about to undertake.

Upon executing the search warrant, law enforcement officers quickly apprehended two suspects, aged 30 and 34, who were found within the premises. The operation yielded a remarkable haul of illicit substances police seized a staggering 1,563 mandrax tablets and 4,070 heroin capsules, with an estimated street value exceeding R200,250.

Additionally, officers recovered a money counting machine, indicating the scale of illicit financial operations likely linked to the drug trade.

The suspects were promptly charged with possession of substances suspected to be heroin and mandrax. Following their arrest, they were transported to the Phoenix South African Police Service (SAPS) station for further processing.

They are scheduled to appear in Phoenix Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 24 December 2023, facing serious charges that could have significant ramifications for their future.

This operation reflects the ongoing commitment of South African police forces to tackle the pervasive issue of drug trafficking and usage, a problem that continues to plague communities across the nation.

Local authorities have intensified their efforts to dismantle drug networks operating in residential areas, with particular focus on high-risk zones identified through community intelligence and surveillance operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Thembeka Mbele, provincial police spokesperson, commended the officers involved in the operation.

"This significant seizure demonstrates our unwavering determination to rid our communities of dangerous substances that destroy lives. The collaboration between different police units proved crucial in this successful operation," she stated.

Community leaders in Phoenix have welcomed the arrests, noting that drug-related activities have been a growing concern in the area.

Residents had reportedly raised alarms about increased suspicious activities around the property in recent months.

The Phoenix raid represents one of the largest drug seizures in the district this year, highlighting both the scale of the drug problem and the increasing effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement responses.