Eight arrested after R20 Million codeine and dagga haul found in hijacked houghton home

Johannesburg Metro Police have arrested eight individuals following a major intelligence-led operation that uncovered a drug packaging and distribution hub inside a hijacked residential property in Houghton. The raid revealed large quantities of prescription codeine syrup and processed dagga valued at over R20 million, reportedly destined for cross-border trafficking to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe.

Authorities say the hijacked property had been occupied illegally, with tenants paying rent into untraceable accounts. The operation exposed a sophisticated criminal network using the property to conceal the preparation and storage of controlled substances.

Public Safety MMC Dr Mgcini Tshwaku described the seizure as a significant victory against organised crime, commending the collaboration between tactical response units and crime intelligence analysts. He confirmed the building has been secured and indicated further investigations are underway to dismantle the broader syndicate.

The eight suspects now face charges related to possession and dealing in narcotics, as well as illegal occupation of property. Authorities have called on the public to report any information regarding hijacked properties or drug-related activities to aid ongoing efforts to curb the illicit trade.