DURBAN- Members of the Hawks Drug Enforcement Bureau have made yet another breakthrough following the recovery of 140 kilograms of ephedrine. The Hawks members received information on Friday,24 June about suspected drugs in a container, on a vessel which was going to dock at the at Durban harbour.
Upon arrival that night, Hawks members with the assistance of SARS Customs officials, Shongweni K9 Unit and the SAPS Operational Response Services (ORS) offloaded the container and seize approximately 140 kilograms of ephedrine found hidden in bags containing pepper. The street value of the seized drugs is estimated at R3 million.
Ephedrine is a Schedule 6 substance in South Africa, meaning a prescription is required to get any medication containing it. Ephedrine, or pseudoephedrine, which is used in some cold and flu medications and can be used in the manufacturing of crystal methamphetamine or tik.
“This is another huge blow to the drug dealers and importers who cause so much damage in our communities. I applaud everyone for their meticulous work. It is a great example of our continued success in targeting organised crime and working hard to keep these harmful drugs off our streets. This sends a very strong signal to criminals that the Government is serious about taking away the profits of crime and putting the gangs out of business,” said Lieutenant General Ntlemeza.
The National Head of the Directorate for Priority investigation (DPCI) Lieutenant General Mthandazo Ntlemeza has commended all law enforcement members for working together to target organised crimes.
“An investigation is underway and Hawks managed to sieze all drugs before it hit the streets,” said Hawks spokesperson Captain Simphiwe Mhlongo.
