South African police have arrested two Nigerian nationals and another man following an operation that led to the seizure of suspected drugs valued at about R1.5 million, equivalent to approximately N125 million.
The arrests were made on Thursday, August 27, during Operation Ukubuza in the Central area of Gqeberha, Eastern Cape Province.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) identified the two Nigerian suspects as 36-year-old Kelvin Ike and 52-year-old Okeke Joseph Sunday.
Police said the operation followed intelligence about alleged drug dealing activities around Parliament Street. Officers moved into the area and arrested two men who were allegedly found in possession of suspected narcotics.
A third suspect was also taken into custody after police discovered a large amount of cash in his possession. According to SAPS, the man could not provide a satisfactory explanation for the money, prompting officers to open an investigation into its origin.
The operation took another turn when a police K9 officer reportedly detected suspected drugs in or around a white Mercedes-Benz B200 Turbo.
After tracing the vehicle to its owner, police obtained permission to search it. During the search, officers reportedly discovered another suspect hiding inside the boot of the car.
A key found with the suspect allegedly led investigators to a flat, where another search was conducted.
Police said the searches resulted in the recovery of several suspected drugs, including dagga, tik, khat, cocaine and mandrax tablets. Officers also seized smoking pipes, syringes, a portable weighing scale and an undisclosed amount of cash.
The two Nigerian nationals were subsequently charged with offences relating to possession of drugs and appeared before the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court.
Their case was adjourned until Monday, August 31, while the 42-year-old suspect accused of dealing in drugs is also expected to appear before the court.
South African police authorities said the operation demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led policing in disrupting criminal networks.
Acting NMB District Commissioner Brigadier Loyiso Ngalo praised the officers involved, saying their quick response helped remove a substantial quantity of suspected drugs from circulation.
SAPS said operations against suspected drug dealers and other criminal networks would continue as authorities work to improve safety in communities.
