A multi-agency operation was carried out on Friday, September 18, in Phoenix, South Africa, resulting in the shutdown of a suspected drug outlet near a primary school. The operation involved the Durban Metro Police Drug Team, Economic Infrastructure Task Team, Trio Crimes Unit, Counter Narcotics KZN, and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) Port Shepstone. The operation targeted a property in Schoolside Crescent after receiving intelligence about alleged drug dealing in close proximity to a primary school.
Police obtained a search warrant and searched the premises, following further leads to a second property in Hallbridge Lane, Phoenix. A 58-year-old male was arrested for allegedly dealing in and possessing drugs. He was detained at Phoenix SAPS. The arrest is a significant blow to the alleged drug network operating in the area, particularly those posing a threat to schools and young people.
During the operation, officers seized a large quantity of drugs, including 879 pieces of crack cocaine packaged in branded wrapping, 97 loose pieces of crack cocaine, 13 small blocks of pure cocaine, 19 heroin capsules, and 76 mandrax tablets. The seizure of these drugs is expected to disrupt the supply of illicit substances in the area.
In addition to the drugs, police confiscated a licensed 9mm pistol, 10 live rounds of ammunition, and R450 in cash believed to be linked to the alleged illegal operation. The confiscation of the firearm and cash suggests that the alleged drug outlet was involved in a larger illicit operation.
The latest arrest comes just days after another successful anti-drug operation in Phoenix. On September 15, the Durban Metro Police Service Economic Infrastructure Task Team and Tactical Support Unit intercepted a vehicle allegedly transporting drugs in the area. A man was arrested and found to be in possession of 400 pieces of suspected rock cocaine and 400 capsules of suspected heroin.
Law enforcement officials said the recent operations demonstrate the continued focus on dismantling drug networks operating within Phoenix. The authorities emphasised that community information remains vital in identifying drug outlets and helping to keep dangerous substances out of the hands of children. Residents are being encouraged to report suspected drug dealing and other illegal activities in their neighbourhoods.
The shutdown of the suspected drug outlet and the arrest of the 58-year-old man are part of a broader effort to combat drug-related crime in the area. The multi-agency operation highlights the collaboration between various law enforcement agencies to address the issue of drug dealing in communities.
Key points
- A 58-year-old man was arrested and a large quantity of drugs seized in a multi-agency operation in Phoenix, South Africa.
- The operation targeted a suspected drug outlet near a primary school, highlighting the threat posed by drug networks to young people.
- The authorities are encouraging residents to report suspected drug dealing and other illegal activities in their neighbourhoods.
