Minister Sileku commends provincial traffic officers following drug seizure at Tsitsikamma Toll Plaza
Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, has commended provincial traffic officers for their vigilance following a major drug bust at the N2 Tsitsikamma Toll Plaza last night (13 April).
While conducting routine vehicle checks as part of ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) operations, two officers from the Knysna Provincial Traffic Centre stopped a vehicle travelling from the direction of Gqeberha. During the inspection, they discovered about 15 large bags of compressed dagga.
The driver, believed to be a foreign national, could not provide legal documentation for the consignment and was arrested for dealing in dagga. The South African Police Service (SAPS) processed the scene and has taken over the evidence and investigation. The value of the seized drugs is being determined through forensic analysis.
A male passenger managed to flee into the nearby forest while still handcuffed and remains at large.
Minister Sileku commended the officers for stopping the drugs before they reached local communities: “I commend them for their vigilance and quick action. Beyond enforcing traffic laws, officers play a critical role in combating serious criminal activity during roadblocks, patrols, and weighbridge operations. This year alone, officers have arrested 14 drivers for possession of drugs, which highlights the scale of the challenge we are dealing with. Drugs are a major driver of violence and crime in our province, and by intercepting them on our roads, we are helping to keep our communities safe.”
“These outcomes demonstrate that traffic enforcement operations are also an important crime prevention tool, disrupting organised criminal networks that use the road network to transport illegal substances and contraband. Through visible policing, intelligence-led operations, and cooperation with SAPS and prosecuting authorities, our traffic officers continue to make a meaningful contribution to public safety beyond road safety enforcement,” added Maxine Bezuidenhout, Chief Director of Traffic Management.
The driver remains in custody and is expected to appear in court soon. Law enforcement agencies are continuing the search for the escaped passenger.
In a separate incident earlier today (14 April), a traffic officer conducting high-visibility patrols and vehicle checks on the N2 near Grabouw, with the assistance of Grabouw SAPS, stopped a light delivery vehicle at approximately 10:50 near Orchard. The driver appeared nervous during the stop. Upon inspection of the vehicle, officers discovered 22 bags of abalone concealed in transparent bags and arrested the driver. The estimated street value of the abalone is R635 773.
Media Enquiries
Byron La Hoe
Acting Media Liaison Officer to Minister Isaac Sileku
Western Cape Mobility Department
Email: Byron.laHoe@westerncape.gov.za