Image: Large quantities of dagga concealed in black plastic wrapping were seized during the intelligence-driven operation
Four suspects aged between 40 and 47 were granted bail after appearing in the Ermelo Magistrate’s Court following their arrest during an intelligence-driven operation conducted by SAPS members from Sheepmoor.
According to police, information was received about vehicles allegedly transporting dagga along the N2 Road from Piet Retief towards Ermelo. Members established a Vehicle Check Point near a farm along the route on 26 February 2026.
During the operation, two vehicles — a Toyota Quantum and a Ford Ranger, both with Gauteng registration plates — were stopped and searched.
Police seized:
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28 bags of dagga weighing approximately 280kg from the Toyota Quantum
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Estimated street value: R1.68 million
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3 bags of dagga weighing approximately 10.8kg from the Ford Ranger
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Estimated street value: R65 000
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Four suspects were subsequently charged with dealing in dagga.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, previously commended members for their vigilance and swift response, stating that such intelligence-driven operations help disrupt the supply chain of illicit substances in the province.
During their court appearance, bail was granted as follows:
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Mbongiseni Zondo – Bail set at R10 000
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Mhlonipheni Zondo – Bail set at R10 000
(Linked to dagga estimated at over R1 million) -
Muzi Dlamini – Bail set at R5 000
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Sesi Dlamini – Bail set at R5 000
(Linked to dagga estimated at R65 000)
All four accused are expected to appear in court again on 21 May 2026 as the matter continues.