Major Drug Bust in Gqeberha: Three Arrested with R1.5 Million Worth of Drugs
Police operation leads to significant seizure of suspected drugs in Gqeberha.
The Full Story
In a significant breakthrough against drug trafficking, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has seized drugs valued at approximately R1.5 million in Gqeberha. The operation, dubbed Operation UKUBUZA, took place on Thursday, 27 August 2026, after police received actionable intelligence regarding drug sales in the Central area. At around 11 AM, officers apprehended two men believed to be involved in selling drugs when they were found in possession of suspicious substances during the operation.
Additionally, a third suspect was located nearby with a significant amount of cash, which he was unable to account for, prompting police to investigate the origins of the money. As part of their operational efforts, police noticed a white Mercedes-Benz B200 Turbo parked on Parliament Street with suspected drugs in plain view inside the vehicle. Upon searching the car and its surroundings, officers recovered a plastic bag with suspected illegal drugs hidden near the vehicle’s rear tire.
The police traced the car back to its owner, who disclosed that he had rented the vehicle. Subsequent inquiries led officers to discover a man hiding in the boot of the car, intensifying the operation's success. Further investigations revealed a follow-up search at a flat, where police discovered a trove of illicit substances including dagga, tik, khat, cocaine, and mandrax tablets, alongside various drug paraphernalia such as smoking pipes, syringes, and a portable scale—further underscoring the severe nature of the operation.
The police valued the total haul of drugs, cash, and equipment seized during the operation at around R1.5 million. Two suspects, Kelvin Ike (36) and Okeke Joseph Sunday (52), appeared in the Gqeberha Magistrate’s Court on drug possession charges. A 42-year-old man charged with dealing drugs is also set to appear in court, reflecting the police’s commitment to addressing and disrupting the drug trade in the region.
Acting Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner Brigadier Loyiso Ngalo commended the Operation UKUBUZA team for their swift actions in removing a substantial quantity of drugs from the streets and expressed a determination to continue these operations aimed at confronting drug dealers and other types of criminal activity. SAPS remains vigilant as it strives to foster safer communities through sustained efforts against drug-related crimes, pledging ongoing operations to tackle and dismantle the networks that facilitate such illegal activities. As the situation develops with court proceedings against the arrested individuals, community engagement and support will be pivotal in combating ongoing drug issues, emphasizing collaboration amongst law enforcement, citizens, and various community organizations to create a safer environment in Gqeberha and beyond. The police’s decisive actions indicate that efforts to confront and eradicate drug abuse and trafficking will remain a high priority, reinforcing the importance of laws to protect communities from the adverse effects linked to drugs.
Why It Matters
This operation signifies a critical effort by SAPS to combat drug trafficking in South Africa, highlighting the continuous need for community involvement to tackle drug-related crimes effectively. Public awareness on drug issues is vital for prevention and community safety.
What's Next
Following the arrest of the three suspects, court proceedings are expected to commence, with SAPS promising to maintain a tough stance against drug-related crimes. Continued operations are likely to target drug networks operating within the region.