South Africa: Discovery of a Multi-Million Dollar Methamphetamine Lab

The police in South Africa announced on Saturday that they uncovered a methamphetamine manufacturing lab in one of the largest drug busts in the country's history, arresting four suspects, including two Mexicans. The police stated in a statement that the lab was discovered inside a farm in Groblersdal, a small town in Limpopo province. The statement noted that officers found large quantities of chemicals used in drug production, including acetone and crystal meth, with a market value estimated at around 2 billion rand (109.5 million dollars). Kataligo Mogale, spokesperson for the elite Hawks police unit that participated in the raid, remarked, "What makes this operation different from others is the involvement of two Mexican nationals." According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, South Africa is a key drug trafficking hub due to its geographical location and international trade links, and it is considered a growing market for manufactured drugs. The office reported in its 2023 World Drug Report that methamphetamine trafficking, in particular, is increasing in Africa. The police statement indicated that the detained suspects are set to appear in court on Monday to face charges of drug manufacturing, trafficking, and possession.