Three caught peddling drugs in Operation Diamond
Three suspects have been arrested in Zastron as part of Operation Diamond, following a year-long investigation into the sale of crystal meth and mandrax.
Three individuals involved in drug sales are scheduled to face Zastron Magistrate’s Court on Thursday following their arrest during Operation Diamond. The suspects, comprising of a 42-year-old man, a 60-year-old man, and a 42-year-old woman, are charged with dealing in illegal substances. They were apprehended on Wednesday morning during the operation conducted by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as Hawks, in the Free State region.
Lieutenant-Colonel Zweli Mohobeleli, the Hawks provincial spokesperson, revealed that the arrest involved a multidisciplinary team consisting of Hawks, Tactical Response Team (TRT), and Crime Intelligence (CI) members. The individuals were identified by the Crime Intelligence division in 2025 amidst concerns over the widespread distribution of crystal meth and mandrax in Zastron.
Mohobeleli disclosed that the suspects participated in mock transactions where they allegedly sold drugs. Maj-Gen Mokgadi Bokaba, the head of Hawks in the Free State, emphasized that the availability of drugs facilitates other criminal acts such as violence and gang-related activities. She highlighted that reducing drug supply in Matlakeng could aid in curbing related crimes.
Bokaba also acknowledged the successful collaboration with the Crime Intelligence division in bringing the suspects to justice.
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