Limpopo families fear influx of drugs after major Hawks Lab Bust on Musina Farm

Health-e News Limpopo families fear influx of drugs after major Hawks Lab Bust on Musina Farm Parents in Musina, Limpopo, say drug addiction is taking a toll on families, leaving some afraid in their own homes and struggling to get help for their children.

Their concerns come after the Hawks uncovered a suspected crystal methamphetamine manufacturing operation on a farm in Musina, in Vhembe District on 20 August.

Five suspects, including two Mexican nationals, were arrested and drugs and laboratory equipment with an estimated street value of R600 million were seized.

Police confirmed an undisclosed amount of cash was also seized.

Community activists fear a possible Mexican cartel link in South Africa.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), this is the third clandestine drug laboratory to be shut down in Limpopo in recent months.

Concerned family members and activists protested outside the Musina Magistrate’s Court last week Friday, where the suspects made their second court appearance following the drug bust.

Parents worried about drugs infiltrating Musina Health-e News spoke to parents and community members outside court who have experienced the effects of drug addiction within their families.

For 70-year-old Melita Musekwa, living with her 30-year-old grandson struggling with drug addiction became a frightening experience.

“I used to miss my light bulbs in the house.

I did not know how they disappeared.

I became suspicious of my grandchild’s behaviour and decided to visit his room.

I found candles burning even though it was daytime,” Musekwa says.

Musekwa says she confronted him about the missing light bulbs and candles, but says he became aggressive and wanted to fight her.