Picture: Five accused who were arrest remanded in custody
By STAFF REPORTER
13 October 2026 – Five suspects have appeared before the Krugersdorp Magistrate’s Court following their arrest in connection with a clandestine drug manufacturing laboratory valued at an estimated R100 million in Hekpoort, near Krugersdorp, Gauteng. The accused appeared in court on 12 October 2026, facing charges of manufacturing and dealing in illicit drugs.
The Hawks spokesperson, Colonel Katlego Mogale said the laboratory was uncovered last week during a multidisciplinary operation led by the South African Narcotics Bureau of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Head Office Crime Intelligence, the Special Task Force and the West Rand K-9 Unit. Mogale said the police reportedly discovered quantities of Mandrax and ecstasy tablets at the suspected drug manufacturing facility.
“The operation was part of efforts to combat illicit drug manufacturing and distribution. The clandestine laboratory, worth an estimated R100 million, was uncovered through a multidisciplinary operation involving various law enforcement units.
“The five accused are expected to return to the same court on 21 October 2026 for a formal bail application. The investigation is ongoing,” she said.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the accused are Trent Coetzer (36), Nakedi Makwesi (44), Evan-Lee Mohapi (25), Donell Coetzer (28) and Lyle Johnson (21). They face charges relating to the manufacturing of and dealing in illegal drugs.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Magaboke Mohlatlole said law enforcement authorities received information about suspected illegal drug manufacturing activities at the farm. Mohlatlole said after obtaining a search warrant, the police conducted an operation at the premises, where they discovered the clandestine laboratory and arrested the five accused.
“The operation was led by the Hawks’ Narcotics Bureau in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) Head Office Crime Intelligence, the Special Task Force and the West Rand K-9 Unit.
“Preliminary estimates place the value of the laboratory and its contents at approximately R100 million. The matter had been postponed to 21 October 2026, for the verification of the accused’s residential addresses and a formal bail application,” she said.
Mohlatlole said all five accused remain in custody. She said the NPA remained committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies to combat organised crime and ensure that those involved in the manufacture and distribution of illegal drugs were held accountable before the law.
