A massive crystal methamphetamine laboratory valued at about R350 million was discovered on a farm in Oudehoutkloof, Volksrust, on Friday, 19 September 2025.
The lab was uncovered following a tip-off from the community about suspicious activities, notably a strong chemical smell emanating from the premises, which sparked concerns of illicit drug production.
Five foreign nationals from a North American country were arrested in connection with the lab, while two others, believed to be from West African countries, fled the scene and are currently being pursued by the authorities.
During the raid, the police seized large quantities of precursor chemicals, drug-manufacturing equipment, and crystal methamphetamine packaged in lunch boxes and buckets stored in freezers. The police also seized a pellet gun loaded with blank rounds and three live 9mm rounds from the South African farm caretaker, who is the sixth suspect and faces possible charges for possession of ammunition.
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MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, reported that preliminary investigations revealed that the five foreign nationals were in the country illegally and are facing charges related to contravening the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act and the Immigration Act.
“We discovered this serious lab, where crystal meth is being manufactured. The estimated street value of the drugs is R350 million. It’s one of the biggest labs we’ve discovered, surpassing the one we found in Standerton about two to three months ago. We will ensure that we build a solid case against them,” said Macie.
The investigation is ongoing and all six suspects are expected to appear in court today.
