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South African police arrest four suspects for drug trafficking 

Police said four male suspects, aged between 31 and 34, were arrested at different locations in Springbok and Okiep.

• July 14, 2026
South African and Nigerian police officers
South African and Nigerian police officers

South African police have arrested four suspects over alleged drug trafficking in the Namakwa District of the country’s Northern Cape Province.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) disclosed the arrests in a statement posted on X, saying the suspects were apprehended during the early hours of July 14, 2026.

According to the statement, the operation, which began in 2023, was led by the Organised Crime Investigation Unit’s Narcotics Component in collaboration with Crime Intelligence and culminated in coordinated raids in Springbok and Okiep following extensive investigations.

The police said the multidisciplinary team comprised members of the Northern Cape Organised Crime Investigation Unit, the Kimberley and Springbok K9 units, the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC), Springbok Public Order Police, Crime Intelligence, and the Namakwa District Task Team.

Police said four male suspects, aged between 31 and 34, were arrested at different locations in Springbok and Okiep. The suspects include two South African nationals and two foreign nationals.

The statement noted that five cases of drug dealing were registered at the Nababeep and Springbok police stations following the operation.

The four suspects are expected to appear before the Springbok Magistrate’s Court on charges related to drug dealing.

Police added that investigations were ongoing and further arrests cannot be ruled out.

The Provincial Commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, commended officers for their dedication, perseverance, and professionalism in bringing the lengthy investigation to a successful conclusion.

He said, “The successful conclusion of Operation Dove demonstrates our unwavering commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks involved in the illicit drug trade.”

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