KLIPVOORSTAD — A 62-year-old man has been arrested following the discovery of a suspected clandestine drug laboratory at a farm in Klipvoorstad, near Jericho.
The discovery was made on Wednesday after community members alerted law enforcement to suspicious activities at the property and reported a strong, unpleasant chemical smell coming from the premises.
Police found four men at the scene, two South African nationals and two foreign nationals. Three of the men allegedly fled into the surrounding bushes when police arrived, while the 62-year-old man was arrested.
North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management Galerekwe Tlhapi says the suspected drug manufacturing operation had allegedly been running from the premises for about three months.
The MEC says the value of the drugs discovered is yet to be established, as investigations are still underway. Authorities are also working to determine the relationship between the tenant and the premises.
The discovery has left community members concerned about criminal activities taking place in their area. Residents have expressed shock over the suspected drug laboratory and are calling for law enforcement agencies to intensify specialised inspections and operations.
They believe continued law enforcement operations and community involvement are important in identifying other criminal activities and preventing children from being exposed to drugs.
The MEC has commended community members for coming forward with information that enabled law enforcement to act on the suspected illegal activities.
Police investigations are continuing, including efforts to trace the three suspects who fled the scene.
