Hawks seize E900,000 drug haul at Oshoek Border

By Thokozani Mazibuko

South African authorities have intercepted a major drug consignment valued at approximately E900,000 at the Oshoek Border on Wednesday, in an operation that has once again highlighted the persistent challenge of cross-border drug trafficking between Eswatini and South Africa.

According to a statement released by the South African Police Service (SAPS), members of the Hawks’ Secunda-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit acted on intelligence received from SAPS officers stationed at the border post.

The operation led to the seizure of mandrax tablets and dagga concealed inside a South African-registered truck that had crossed into South Africa from Eswatini.

“The truck was stopped for inspection, and, upon a thorough search, law enforcement officers discovered a large quantity of mandrax tablets and dagga,” SAPS reported.

“The seized substances, with an estimated street value of R900,000, were handed over for forensic analysis.”

The driver of the vehicle was immediately taken into custody and is expected to appear in court once formal charges are finalised.

The authorities are investigating whether the drugs were destined for local distribution networks or intended for onward transit to other provinces.

The Hawks commended the swift coordination between border police and their organised crime investigators, describing it as a crucial example of effective inter-agency collaboration in combating narcotics smuggling.

“The success of this operation is a clear demonstration of our commitment to stopping the illegal drug trade that threatens communities across the country,” said a police spokesperson.

Investigations are continuing to determine the origin of the narcotics and whether the case is linked to a broader cross-border syndicate.