Three foreign nationals caught with 713kg drug precursor worth nearly R1 billion at Limpopo border post in major SAPS crackdown
Image: File
Three foreign nationals, including two Malawian nationals and one Zambian, have been arrested after authorities intercepted a truck carrying 713 kilograms of methaqualone (ABBA), a key drug-manufacturing ingredient valued at nearly R1 billion, at the Beitbridge Border Post in Limpopo.
The interception forms part of the ongoing nationwide crackdown under Operation Shanela, which continues to target organised crime syndicates, drug trafficking networks, and serious violent crime across South Africa.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Vincent Mukhathi said the breakthrough was made in coordination with the Border Management Authority (BMA), which successfully stopped the vehicle at the busy border crossing.
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) ongoing nationwide Shanela Operations continue to secure major breakthroughs in the fight against criminal networks involved in organised crime, drug trafficking and possession as well as other serious and violent crimes,” Mukhathi said.
Authorities confirmed that the seizure of the large consignment of methaqualone was one of several major drug-related busts recorded during the week-long operations conducted between 25 and 31 May 2026.
“Among those arrested are three suspects- two Malawi nationals and one Zambian after the Border Management Authority (BMA) officials successfully intercepted a truck carrying 713 kilograms of methaqualone (ABBA), a drug manufacturing ingredient with a street value of nearly R1 billion at Beitbridge border post in Limpopo,” Mukhathi said.
The seizure is regarded as one of the most significant cross-border drug interdictions in recent months, with authorities warning that international trafficking syndicates continue to exploit regional trade routes to move illicit substances into and through South Africa.
The operation also forms part of broader enforcement actions that led to the arrest of 15 222 suspects nationwide, including 2 462 wanted individuals linked to serious crimes such as murder, rape, armed robbery, and drug trafficking.
Police further reported extensive drug seizures across provinces, including crystal meth worth millions of rand and large quantities of dagga smuggled across provincial and international borders.
In total, drug enforcement operations led to the arrest of 254 alleged drug dealers and 2 408 individuals for possession of drugs, highlighting what authorities describe as intensified pressure on narcotics distribution networks.
“Police also conducted operations targeting drug-related offences, including drug dealing, possession, and cross-border drug trafficking resulting in the arrest of 254 alleged drug dealers and 2,408 for possession of drugs,” Mukhathi said.
Beyond drug-related arrests, authorities recovered firearms, ammunition, vehicles, and dangerous weapons as part of coordinated raids nationwide, aimed at dismantling organised criminal activity.
“Operation Shanela continues to disrupt crime, recover firearms, confiscate drugs and arrest wanted suspects across all nine provinces,” Mukhathi said.
The Beitbridge interception is expected to form part of ongoing investigations into transnational drug trafficking syndicates operating between Southern African countries, with police indicating that further arrests could follow as intelligence operations continue.
The suspects are expected to appear in court on charges linked to drug trafficking and contravention of cross-border smuggling laws.
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