Five arrested as police uncover R1m hydroponic dagga lab in De Deur

An intelligence-driven police operation in De Deur led to the arrest of five suspects and the discovery of a hydroponic dagga laboratory valued at more than R1 million on Thursday, 27 August.

Gauteng police said officers uncovered the laboratory during a multidisciplinary operation targeting criminal activity in the area.

Two firearms, a .303 rifle and a 9mm Glock pistol, were also recovered during the operation.

Gauteng police spokesperson Captain Tintswalo Sibeko said the intelligence-driven operation resulted in the arrest of five suspects and the discovery of the hydroponic dagga laboratory, which police estimate to be worth more than R1 million.

The operation involved members of Gauteng Counterfeit Intelligence Narcotics, Gauteng Organised Crime, the West Rand K9 Unit, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), National Cybercrime and private security.

Police had not yet disclosed the identities of the suspects or confirmed the charges they are expected to face at the time of publication.

The scene remained active on Thursday as police continued with investigations.

Further information regarding the quantity of dagga recovered, the firearms and the suspects’ expected court appearance had not yet been released.