Major Cocaine Seizure in Midrand: SAPS Commends Successful Operation

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has announced a significant drug bust in Midrand, Gauteng, with authorities seizing approximately R20 million worth of cocaine. The operation underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat organised crime and drug trafficking within the country.

According to SAPS National Spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the seizure was the result of a crime intelligence-driven operation conducted on Tuesday evening, 28 October 2025. A multidisciplinary task team, comprising Crime Intelligence from the Head Office, the Gauteng Organised Crime Unit, SAPS Johannesburg K9 Unit, and members of the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), followed up on intelligence indicating illegal narcotics were being stored at a smallholding in Blue Hills, Midrand.

Further investigations revealed that the drugs had been trafficked into South Africa from a neighbouring country and were destined for Cape Town, Western Cape. The cocaine was discovered hidden within a storage room on the premises, with authorities seizing approximately 80 kilograms of the substance.

A 56-year-old man believed to be the owner of the property was arrested at the scene. He is expected to make his first appearance before the Midrand Magistrate’s Court later this week, facing charges related to possession and dealing in drugs.

SAPS Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia, has expressed his appreciation for the successful operation. In a statement, he highlighted the importance of such efforts in the fight against organised crime. “This operation demonstrates the professionalism and dedication of our members in blue. The removal of R20 million worth of cocaine from our streets is a significant blow to criminal syndicates and a victory for our communities,” he stated.

Minister Cachalia further emphasised the government’s commitment to intensifying anti-drug initiatives, adding, “We will continue to work tirelessly to dismantle these criminal networks and protect our citizens from the devastating impact of drugs.”