Drug Bust and Illegal Alcohol Sales Crackdown in Dutywa

Dutywa, Eastern Cape – Law enforcement officers from the Mbhashe Local Municipality have intensified their efforts to tackle drug-related crime and illegal alcohol trading, resulting in multiple arrests during operations in Dutywa.

According to the municipality, officers were conducting a routine patrol when they noticed suspicious activity involving a man interacting with school learners. The learners were reportedly seen approaching the individual multiple times and appearing to receive items from him, raising concern among officers.

Police intervened and searched the suspect, allegedly discovering drugs in his possession. Further questioning at the scene led officers to another location, where additional drugs were found. Two men were subsequently arrested on charges of possession of drugs.

The confiscated substances included 34 mandrax tablets, 43 straws of crystal meth, approximately 500 grams of crystal meth, and three additional sachets of the drug. Authorities estimate the street value of the seized drugs to be around R4,000. An amount of R709.50 in cash was also confiscated.

In a separate operation, law enforcement officials uncovered an unlicensed premises where alcohol was allegedly being stored and sold illegally. Officers seized several alcoholic products, including multiple cases of beer, cider, and flavoured alcoholic beverages.

Among the confiscated items were six cases of Black Label, two cases of Redd’s, two carry packs of Savanna, one case of Castle Milk Stout, and one carry pack of Brutal Fruit.

All suspects linked to both operations have been apprehended and are currently being held at the Dutywa Police Station. They are expected to face charges related to drug possession and the illegal sale of alcohol.

Mbhashe Local Municipality said the operations form part of ongoing efforts to improve community safety and curb illegal activities in the area. Authorities have indicated that similar enforcement actions will continue as part of a broader strategy to address crime and protect vulnerable members of the community.

The municipality has also urged residents to report suspicious activities, especially those involving drugs and illegal trading, as part of a collective effort to maintain safer communities.