Trucker bust with R4.2 million mandrax tablets after crashing into another truck

Eastern Cape police have arrested a 45-year-old truck driver after uncovering R4.2 million worth mandrax tablets in his load of furniture.

Police made the bust after searching the truck when the trucker apparently collided with another stationary truck just outside of Middelburg, in the Eastern Cape.

The accident happened just before midnight on Wednesday, 20 May 2020, towards Noupoort in the vicinity of a police roadblock meant to enforce Covid-19 regulations.

The truck was reportedly destined to deliver furniture in George.

Preliminary investigation on the scene resulted in a consignment of neatly packaged Mandrax tablets and dagga valued at approximately R4.2 million being uncovered amongst the furniture.

The driver who sustained injuries following the crash was taken to a nearby medical facility under police guard for treatment. His passenger who was unharmed was taken in for questioning.

The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team obtained a comprehensive statement from the passenger who has since been released pending further probing.

The recuperating suspect has been charged for alleged possession of drugs as well as reckless and negligent driving. Further investigation is being carried out to establish the origin and the intended recipient of the consignment.

The trucker is expected to appear in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 25 May 2020.