A multidisciplinary police operation has resulted in the arrest of three illegal immigrants for drug trafficking in Odendaalsrus, Matjhabeng. The suspects, aged 31, 36, and 37, face 13 cases related to dealing and possession of drugs.
According to a statement from the South African Police Service, the intelligence-driven operation on June 25 involved several units, including the Free State Provincial Organised Crime Investigation, Welkom Crime Intelligence, and the Selosesha Tactical Response Team. The team seized drugs worth R130,000, including crystal meth, mandrax, and nyaope.
The suspects have approximately 10 other pending cases before the court and are expected to face additional charges regarding contravention of the Immigration Act. They appeared in the Odendaalsrus Magistrate's Court on June 29 and were remanded until July 7 for bail information.
**Background**
This arrest is part of ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and related crimes in the region. In a separate operation last week, 11 suspected illegal miners were arrested and over 120 kilograms of gold-bearing material was confiscated during Operation Prosper actions in Welkom.
The South African Police Service has been conducting operations to eradicate illegal mining activities in Lejweleputswa District, resulting in several arrests and seizures of illicit materials.