Hawks Decommission Volksrust Drug Laboratory

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has confirmed that the decommissioning and cleaning of a multi-million-rand clandestine drug laboratory in Volksrust, Mpumalanga, is set to be completed by Friday, 31 October 2025.

The discovery was made on 19 September 2025 after police received reports of a strong, unpleasant smell in the area. Following investigations, six suspects were arrested — one South African national and five Mexican nationals.

The case was referred to the Hawks’ Secunda-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation team for further handling. Authorities successfully opposed bail for the foreign suspects, leading to them abandoning their applications. The South African, believed to be the caretaker of the farm where the laboratory was located, was granted bail of R50,000.

In addition to arrests, the Hawks commenced decommissioning of the property, which had been declared a public health and environmental hazard. Officials warned that the presence of chemicals carried a significant risk of fire and other dangers to the community. The premises have remained under police guard since the initial raid.

All chemicals and equipment used in the illegal drug manufacturing process are to be destroyed, marking a complete shutdown of the operation.

Provincial Head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, Major General Nico Gerber, said the investigation remains ongoing.

“We will leave no stone unturned until we get the masterminds behind this illegal operation,” he stated.

Authorities emphasised that the clean-up is vital to safeguard the health and safety of residents while ensuring accountability for those responsible.