Members of the Welkom Anti-Gang Unit have arrested three individuals on charges of drug possession during a crime prevention operation in Harrismith on Friday, 6 March 2026.
According to police reports, the operation was initiated based on community information indicating that suspects were dealing drugs at business premises and on the streets in the area.
While patrolling near the Harrismith taxi rank, officers observed a suspicious interaction between two males. Upon approaching and searching the individuals, a 31-year-old man was found in possession of 20 rocks of an undisclosed type of drugs. He was arrested on the scene.
Following additional information from the community regarding drugs being stored at a spaza shop in Tshiame B, police proceeded to the premises. It was alleged that the shop owner was distributing drugs in the area. Despite the owner initially refusing entry, police gained access and conducted a search. During the search, authorities confiscated 43 full Mandrax tablets, 10 half tablets, and 14 crushed tablets. They also recovered 71 rocks of drugs weighing 13.4 grams, as well as 70 units of Nyaope wrapped in green plastic, weighing 12.8 grams. The 43-year-old shop owner was subsequently arrested.
Later, while en route back to town, police received further information about a suspect allegedly selling drugs near a shop in Tshiame B. Upon arrival, officers identified and approached a 28-year-old suspect. A search revealed that he was in possession of eight rocks of drugs wrapped in orange plastic, along with an undisclosed amount of cash. He was arrested on the spot.
All three suspects are expected to appear before the Harrismith Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 9 March 2026, facing charges of possession of illegal substances.