Police have uncovered R20 million worth of cocaine during a late-night operation at a plot in Midrand, Gauteng. The bust is one of the largest this year and is part of a continued national effort to dismantle organised drug networks operating across South Africa.
According to a police statement, the operation took place on Tuesday evening, 28 October 2025, when a multidisciplinary team led by the SAPS Crime Intelligence Head Office raided a small holding in the Blue Hills area of Midrand. The team included officers from the Gauteng Organised Crime Unit, the Johannesburg K9 Unit, and the Local Criminal Record Centre.
Authorities said they were following up on information about drugs that were being stored on the property. Upon searching the premises, officers discovered a hidden storage room containing about 80 kilograms of cocaine. The drugs are believed to have been smuggled into the country from a neighbouring state and were reportedly destined for Cape Town in the Western Cape.
A 56-year-old man who is believed to be the owner of the property was arrested on the scene. Police confirmed that he will face charges of possession and dealing in drugs. He is expected to appear before the Midrand Magistrate’s Court later this week.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the operation was the result of coordinated intelligence work and cooperation among various specialised units. “This operation demonstrates the commitment of our teams to curb drug trafficking and dismantle syndicates that use South Africa as a transit and storage point for illegal substances,” Mathe said.
This latest bust adds to a series of recent police operations targeting the drug trade. In July this year, police in Durban seized cocaine worth R150 million hidden in a container at the port. In September, officers intercepted R50 million worth of heroin along the N3 near Harrismith, while another R12 million drug bust took place in Sandton earlier this month.
Despite these successes, public confidence in the police remains fragile following allegations that some of the drugs seized in previous operations later found their way back into the hands of criminals. During a recent appearance at the Madlanga Commission, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi revealed that certain recovered drugs in KwaZulu-Natal found their way to Gauteng and some corrupt officials were involved.
Community leaders have voiced growing concern about the integrity of drug enforcement operations. Many citizens question whether the arrests and seizures are making a lasting impact when reports of corruption continue to surface within the ranks of law enforcement.
Police management has pledged stronger internal controls and oversight to prevent recovered narcotics from being stolen or resold.
The Midrand suspect remains in custody as investigations continue. Police are working to trace the broader network behind the operation, which is believed to have international links.
Authorities have urged the public to continue sharing information on suspected drug activity and to report any police misconduct. “We need communities to trust us and stand with us as we fight against the scourge of drugs that is destroying lives,” Mathe said.
The successful bust in Midrand marks another major step in the ongoing national crackdown, but questions about accountability and integrity within the police service remain unresolved.
