COURT UPDATE | ACCUSED IN MUSINA R600 MILLION DRUG OPERATION APPEARS IN COURT

MUSINA – Five accused linked to a clandestine drug laboratory valued at approximately R600 million, which was uncovered on a farm in Musina, have made their first brief appearance in the Musina Magistrates’ Court. The accused are two Mexican nationals, Verdogo Marioano Barrera (48) and Leon Castilo Juan (39), and three 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 20 August 2026, an intelligence-driven operation was conducted at Plot 19, Kamkusi Campbell, in Musina, by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks), in collaboration with various South African Police Service (SAPS) units.

During the operation, authorities allegedly uncovered a clandestine laboratory manufacturing crystal methamphetamine. Drugs and laboratory equipment with an estimated street value of R600 million, 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 matter was postponed to 28 August 2026 for the arrangement of language interpreters. All five accused remain in custody.

The investigation continues.

Picture by Katlego Nyoni

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