The Western Cape police made two significant arrests on Tuesday, 15 July 2025, recovering drugs worth more than R781,000 and an unlicensed firearm with ammunition in separate operations in Cape Town.
Mandrax seizure in Malibu Village
Members of Operation Restore, deployed in the Tygerberg Sub-District, acted on intelligence about a drug-related incident in Malibu Village. They visited a residence in Lima Street, where they conducted a search.
According to Western Cape police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, “The members discovered mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of R781,250. A 49-year-old man was arrested for dealing in drugs.”
This Western Cape drug bust forms part of ongoing efforts by police to stop the distribution of illicit substances in high-risk areas.
Firearm and drugs found in Wallacedene
In an unrelated incident, members of the Anti-Economic Crimes Task Team were patrolling Mdluli Street in Wallacedene, Kraaifontein at around 06:00 when they noticed a suspicious man changing direction upon seeing the patrol vehicle.
Police stopped and searched the individual, finding a small quantity of drugs and an unlicensed pistol with ammunition.
“The 26-year-old suspect was arrested for possession of drugs and the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition,” said Warrant Officer Swartbooi.
Both suspects to appear in court
The arrested suspects are expected to appear in the Blue Downs Magistrates’ Court on charges related to drug possession, drug dealing, and illegal firearm possession.
The Western Cape police continue to conduct daily operations aimed at reducing crime and removing illegal weapons and substances from communities.
*Press release by SAPS
