3 suspects arrested in SA over E11 million dagga

MBABANE – Dagga valued at E11 million reportedly from Eswatini was busted in South Africa where three suspects were arrested.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), through their Operation Shanela II, they were able to disrupt a major drug smuggling route.

The Saps reported on its Facebook page that during the relentless implementation of Operation Shanela II, they continued to deliver significant results in the fight against organised crime, with police in Hoedspruit intercepting a major consignment of dagga worth approximately R11 million and arresting three suspects linked to drug trafficking activities. They reported that the successful operation was conducted by members of Hoedspruit SAPS in collaboration with Farm Watch members between Saturday evening, May 30, 2026 and the early hours of yesterday. They reported that acting on information regarding the movement of a large quantity of drugs through the area, operational members intercepted a Toyota Quantum taxi and a Hyundai sedan along the R527 near Snake Park at about 9:15pm on Saturday night.

It was said a search of the vehicles led to the discovery of 130 bags of dagga. Preliminary investigations, according to SAPS, indicate that the consignment originated from Eswatini and was being transported through Limpopo for distribution elsewhere in the country.

It was reported that three suspects, aged between 34 and 35, were immediately arrested on charges of dealing in dagga. The SAPS quoted the Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, who was said to have praised the collaborative efforts of SAPS members and Farm Watch, saying the success highlights the importance of partnerships in safeguarding communities and disrupting criminal activities.

“This seizure has prevented a substantial quantity of illicit drugs from reaching communities and demonstrates the effectiveness of joint operations. Criminals must know that law enforcement remains determined to disrupt drug trafficking networks and protect our communities from the harmful effects of drugs,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe. The suspects are expected to appear before the Hoedspruit Magistrates Court today.