Three Zimbabweans Arrested In R600 Million Crystal Meth Lab Bust In South Africa
Three Zimbabwean nationals are among five people arrested after South African authorities uncovered a suspected crystal methamphetamine laboratory worth an estimated R600 million in Musina, Limpopo.
The suspects were arrested during an intelligence-led operation at a farm on August 20 and later appeared before the Musina Magistrates’ Court.
The Zimbabwean nationals have been identified as Nyamukanga Tichaona Roy, 23, Mabayi Lee, 35, and Nyamukanga Tanaka Royce, 20.
Two Mexican nationals, Verdogo Marioano Barrera, 48, and Leon Castilo Juan, 39, were also arrested.
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R600 Million Drug Operation Uncovered
The arrests followed a joint operation involving the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, and various South African Police Service units.
National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Mashudu Malabi said the operation targeted Plot 19, Kamkusi Campbell in Musina.
“An intelligence-driven joint operation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) and various South African Police Service (SAPS) units led to the raid of Plot 19, Kamkusi Campbell in Musina on August 20, 2026,” Malabi said.
Authorities allegedly discovered a clandestine facility being used to manufacture crystal methamphetamine during the raid.
Drugs, Equipment And Cash Seized
According to the NPA, investigators recovered drugs and laboratory equipment with an estimated street value of R600 million.
An undisclosed amount of cash was also seized during the operation.
Malabi said the drugs were allegedly intended for distribution.
The five suspects were arrested at the property and are now facing several serious charges linked to the alleged operation.
Five Face Multiple Charges
The accused are facing charges including the illegal manufacture of a scheduled substance, dealing in drugs and possession of drugs.
They are also facing allegations relating to money laundering and contraventions of South Africa’s Immigration Act.
The case has attracted attention because of the scale of the alleged drug manufacturing operation and the involvement of nationals from Zimbabwe and Mexico.
Suspects Remain In Custody
The five accused appeared in the Musina Magistrates’ Court following their arrests.
Their case was postponed to August 28, 2026, to allow arrangements to be made for language interpreters ahead of the next court proceedings.
All five suspects will remain in police custody until their next appearance.