Mexican, Zimbabwean nationals charged in Musina drug case

Five accused linked to a clandestine drug laboratory uncovered on a farm in Musina in Limpopo appeared in the local magistrate’s court on Monday.

The accused are Mexican nationals Verdogo Marioano Barrera, 48, and Leon Castilo Juan, 39, and Zimbabwean nationals Nyamukanga Tichaona Roy, 23, Mabayi Lee, 35, and Nyamukanga Tanaka Royce, 20. They are facing charges of manufacturing a scheduled substance, dealing in drugs, possession of drugs, money laundering and contravention of the Immigration Act.

“It is alleged that on August 20, an intelligence-driven operation was conducted at Plot 19, Kamkusi Campbell, in Musina, by the directorate for priority crime investigation , in collaboration with various South African Police Service units,” National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Mashudu Malabi said.

During the operation, authorities allegedly uncovered a clandestine laboratory manufacturing crystal methamphetamine.

“Drugs and laboratory equipment with an estimated street value of R600m, as well as an undisclosed amount of cash, were seized. The drugs were allegedly destined for distribution. The five accused were arrested at the scene.”

The case was postponed until August 28 for language interpreters to be arranged. The five accused remain in custody.