The drugs that were seized by police.
Image: Supplied: Durban Metro Police
In a crackdown on drug-related crime, metro police dismantled another drug operation in Chatsworth, arresting an alleged dealer at his Westcliff home on Wednesday.
The operation follows community concerns about escalating crime.
“The man was found with crack cocaine, mandrax tablets, crystal meth, heroin capsules, and schedule prescription medication called Xanax,” said Colonel Boysie Zungu, spokesperson for Durban Metro Police.
He said the metro police led the joint, multidisciplinary, intelligence-driven operation.
“Police acted on information received regarding a suspected drug den and members responded swiftly following community concerns about escalating crime in the area.The coordinated operation led to the successful apprehension of an individual found in possession of a significant quantity of illicit substances.
“Additional items recovered included drug paraphernalia and cash believed to be proceeds of crime. The estimated street value was R26,850,” said Zungu.
He said the arrest highlighted the importance of intelligence-led operations and community cooperation in fighting drug-related crime.
“The Durban Metro Police Service remains committed to ensuring safer communities and urges the public to continue reporting criminal activities. This successful operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to dismantling drug networks that threaten community safety and well-being. We will continue to intensify these operations and work closely with the public to ensure that those involved in criminal activities are brought to justice."
The estimated street value of the drugs was R26 850
Image: Supplied: Durban Metro Police
Earlier this month, an Umhlatuzana mother of two, Natalie Perumal, joined her husband in the dock for alleged drug dealing. She was arrested by the Hawks and made her first appearance alongside her husband, Gerald Perumal, 33, in the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court.
The Hawks and metro police arrested Gerald at his home during a sting operation. He was allegedly caught while trying to flush drugs down the toilet.
Drugs, including cocaine and mandrax, chemicals, packaging materials, manufacturing equipment, cash, cellphones, guns and ammunition valued at R1 million were found.
Tony Govender, a community leader and ward councillor, said police were inundated with calls from the community regarding drug dealing in Woodhurst, Westcliff, and Silverglen.
“We are glad to hear that the police are stepping up and working, conducting sting operations and bringing these dealers to book. As community leaders, we want to see our society grow in a peaceful environment. We want to see our youngsters take their rightful place in society as decent citizens, not get hooked on or deal drugs that are flooding our community."
The accused is expected to appear in the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court this week.