A regular routine stop and search operation by the Worcester K9 unit has led to major drug discovery in a truck on the N1 highway toward Cape Town. Officers discovered a consignment of methamphetamine (tik) with an estimated street value of R4.5 million before arresting two men aged 25 and 54 on Sunday.

Police spokesperson Joseph Swartbooi said: “The provincial commissioner of the Western Cape police, Lieutenant-General TE Patekile praised the arresting officers for their contribution to tackling the drug trade in this province, especially now that the festive season is upon us.

“Once charged, they (the suspects) are expected to make a court appearance in the Worcester Magistrate’s Court on a charge of dealing in drugs. The circumstances surrounding the case are now being investigated by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations.”

Meanwhile, a 31-year-old suspected drug dealer arrested on business premises in Makhaza, Khayelitsha, is expected to appear in court on Monday.

Police spokesperson Wesley Twigg said: “The members received information about drugs at the premises and followed up on the information. After obtaining permission to search the premises the police found a transparent plastic bag containing 1 018 mandrax tablets and an undisclosed amount of cash hidden in the back of a couch. The suspect was arrested.”