South Africans Outraged as Foreign Nationals Nabbed in R350M Drug Bust in Mpumalanga

• The South African Police Service in Mpumalanga has busted a crystal methamphetamine laboratory worth R350 million
• The police have arrested five foreign nationals at the laboratory on a farm in Volkrust after receiving a tip-off
• This comes after the informants reported suspicious activity and a strange chemical smell coming from the premises

South Africans are buzzing after police nabbed five foreign nationals on a farm operating a crystal methamphetamine laboratory. This follows a tip-off about a strange chemical smell at the farm in Volksrust, Mpumalanga, on Friday, 19 September 2025.

Mpumalanga drug lab worth R350 million busted

According to the police, the drug laboratory is estimated to be worth R350 million. Police said that they responded quickly after receiving a tip-off of strange activity at a farm in Oudehoutkloof, Volksrust. The chemical smell allegedly raised suspicion of illegal drug manufacturing.

A specialised police team, along with the Department of Home Affairs, went to the farm. Police said that upon their arrival, they found the gates locked. The suspects noticed the police officers and tried to flee, but failed and were arrested on the spot.

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Police managed to arrest five suspects who are believed to be from a North American country. Two more suspects, allegedly from a West African country, managed to evade arrest by running into the bushes.

What was discovered at the lab?

Police found large amounts of precursor chemicals allegedly used for drug manufacturing, along with several pieces of drug manufacturing equipment. Crystal methamphetamine, estimated at around R350 million, packed into lunch boxes, was found in a freezer. A pellet gun and three live rounds were also discovered at the scene.

Police also discovered that the five foreign nationals were in the country illegally. The farm caretaker, a South African national, was charged with the possession of ammunition. At the same time, the five North American suspects face charges relating to contravening the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act and the Immigration Act. The case has been handed to the Hawks.

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What did South Africans say?

Social media users shared their opinions regarding the drug lab.

@nicholasp2105 said:

"I don't understand political parties that defend illegal immigrants."

@khal_juniier said:

"Honestly, if we deported every foreign national, I doubt South Africa would still be struggling with drug problems."

@NguluvheKhulu said:

"All international criminals are here because of the corruption in the border management and the criminal justice system."

@Sasalurv said:

"The rise of drug labs in South Africa threatens our youth and future. It’s heartbreaking how drugs have become so normalized in our communities. The government must intensify efforts to shut down drug operations and protect our children from this devastating scourge."

@KinkelaMasala said:

"Where are they from? In Singapore while entering their country, you’re warned about death penalty if they get you dealing with drugs and criminal activities."

3 More stories about drugs in South Africa

• Briefly News also reported that police in KwaZulu-Natal found eight bags of illegal substances valued at over R86 million in a warehouse.
• The South African Police Service (SAPS) destroyed R340 million worth of drugs at an undisclosed location in Cape Town.
• The Gauteng SAPS dismantled an R2.3 million drug lab in De Deur, Johannesburg, arresting four suspects, including the property owner, for drug possession, dealing, and manufacturing.

Source: Briefly News