Knysna: A take down operation following an ongoing investigation into the illicit drug trade involving a Tanzanian national led to the confiscation of drugs with an estimated street value of R350 000 and the arrest of two men.
According to South African Police Service, on Thursday, 21 August 2025, at about 20:00, Knysna Crime Prevention Unit conducted a sting operation at a block of flats at Main Street, Knysna. During the operation, they found 5,882 mandrax tablets in the possession of the Tanzanian man. The police confiscated the drugs and arrested the 40-year-old man. The suspect also made financial advances to a member and consequently faces charges of dealing in drugs and bribery.
Furthermore, on the same day, 21 August 2025, at about 20:15, the same members noticed a man leaving a shop with a suspicious parcel in his possession. They swiftly accosted the man, and upon searching, found 1,006 mandrax tablets in a shopping bag. The drugs, estimated at R50 000, were confiscated, and the 30-year-old man, also a Tanzanian national, was arrested on a charge of dealing in drugs.
Both suspects remain in police custody and are scheduled to make their first court appearance in the Knysna Magistrates' court on Monday, 25 August 2025. The suspects also face charges related to the Immigration Act.
Western Cape Organised Crime Investigations (Narcotics Section) is investigating both cases. The possibility that these cases are linked is being investigated.