WATCH: Suspects remanded in Swartruggens drug lab case

By Akani Nkuna

Eleven people arrested after police uncovered an alleged R1 billion methamphetamine laboratory on a farm in Swartruggens, North West, were remanded in custody after appearing in the Swartruggens Magistrate’s Court on Friday.

The case was postponed to 22 May for interpreters, verification of immigration status and possible formal bail applications.

The accused face charges related to drug manufacturing, illegal possession of precious metals, illegal possession of hazardous materials and contravention of the Immigration Act.

The arrests followed an intelligence-driven operation on Wednesday, when law enforcement officers discovered the drug manufacturing facility on a farm in Swartruggens.

“The operation led to the discovery of a large-scale illegal drug manufacturing facility believed to be involved in the production of methamphetamine. During the operation, law enforcement officers seized tons of equipment and chemicals used in the manufacturing of illegal drugs, as well as three firearms,” said Hawks spokesperson Colonel Katlego