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Hawks bust suspected transnational crime syndicate


The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) have arrested five members of a suspected transnational crime ring after raids on two Western Cape properties which led to the seizure of items from a drugs laboratory and a number of firearms and ammunition.

Hawks spokesperson Captain Lloyd Ramovha said the arrest of five suspects –  two German citizens, two South Africans and a Malawian – came on Thursday for allegedly dealing in narcotics and possession of illegal firearms.

“An intelligence-led search and seizure operation that ran well into early hours of Friday morning was carried out by an integrated team comprising members from the Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB), Crime intelligence and K9 unit at a farm in Touwsriver and a house in Hout Bay,” Ramovha said.

“The search uncovered a clandestine drug production laboratory with hydroponic cannabis, dagga plants, cocaine, Lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) commonly known as ecstasy tablets, as well as equipment. The value is yet to be determined.
 
“Two hunting rifles, a handgun and ammunition were also seized and they are to be subjected to forensic examination to determine whether they were involved in the commission of a crime.”
 
Ramovha said the group, aged between 24 and 35, are expected to appear before the Wynberg and De Doorns Magistrate’s Courts next week Tuesday to face charges related to drug dealing and illegal possession of firearms.

– African News Agency (ANA)