Authorities in South Africa's Free State province have arrested two men following a raid on a farm in Wepener, where they seized a large quantity of dagga valued at R780,000. The operation, prompted by a tip-off, also uncovered live ammunition. The suspects face charges of drug dealing and unlawful possession of firearms.
On Sunday, 21 December 2025, police in Wepener, a small town in the Free State province, conducted an intelligence-led operation that resulted in the arrest of two suspects aged 41 and 52. The raid targeted a farm suspected of being used for transporting and storing illicit substances, following a crucial tip-off.
Officers searched the premises and discovered 78 boxes of dagga, a form of cannabis, with an estimated street value of R780,000. In addition, they found 9mm live rounds in a bedroom. Police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli detailed the findings, stating: “During the operation, the team received a crucial tip-off regarding a farm in the Wepener district allegedly being used to transport and store illicit substances. Upon arrival at the identified premises, officers encountered two male suspects, a thorough search of the residence led to the discovery of 78 boxes of dagga with an estimated street value of 780,000 and 9 mm live rounds found in a bedroom.”
The two men are set to appear in the Wepener Magistrate’s Court on charges of dealing in dagga and unlawful possession of ammunition. This bust highlights ongoing efforts by South African police to combat drug trafficking in rural areas, where such operations often rely on community intelligence.