Police have made a major breakthrough in the fight against the scourge of drugs with the discovery of what appears to be a drug laboratory at a house in Orlando West, Soweto, this morning.
National Police Commissioner, General Khehla Sitole, visited the house in Soweto which was being used as a multi-million rand clandestine drug laboratory.
“At this stage we have recovered tablets, powder, an unidentified solution and equipment that will be subjected to forensic processing to confirm identity, description and use,” said Commissioner Sitole.
SAPS members are hard at work since the discovery this morning and are still busy combing the scene for more evidence.
“The breakthrough emanates from collaborative work between the communities and the police. The community has played a commendable role in this intelligence-driven operation and that must be recognised as we continue to advocate for partnership policing,” said Commissioner Sitole.
Police are yet to determine the estimated value of the recovery but assured the public that they have enough evidence to pursue a criminal case.
“We will at a later stage be able to give further factual context in relation to the estimated value of the recovery. But what we have found is sufficient evidence to warrant a criminal case being opened,” said Commissioner Sitole.
According to the Commissioner, the breakthrough means police will be able to “choke the supply of drugs”.
“Arresting peddlers and runners is important, but we cannot overemphasize the even greater need to arrest and close down the actual manufacturers and suppliers,” he said.
SAPS has appealed to community members, the media or anyone who has information, to come forward and report on any further detail that could assist in concluding the case.
“The truth is, the house had been abandoned on our arrival. SAPS is on the lookout for suspects and we therefore need the public to assist us with apprehending the suspect or suspects.
“To the media, we continue to appeal to you to also partner with us in the fight against crime in general. When the public reports crime to you, please report to us immediately. We should realise that the ultimate intention is to prioritise the fight to keep crime at its lowest levels,” said Commissioner Sitole. - SAnews.gov.za
