EASTERN CAPE — A swift Despatch drug arrest led to the apprehension of a 23-year-old suspect and the seizure of illegal substances with an estimated street value of R16,000 during a search warrant execution in Reservoir Hills early Friday.
At approximately 02:20 on Friday, 3 July 2026, members of the Despatch South African Police Service (SAPS) executed a search warrant at a residence located on Oeivaar Street in Reservoir Hills.
According to a Despatch SAPS spokesperson, the operation took an unexpected turn upon the officers’ arrival. The homeowner opened the door but quickly retreated back into the house after recognizing the police. The individual grabbed a backpack and fled the property on foot.
Officers immediately initiated a foot pursuit. During the chase, the suspect discarded the backpack. Police secured the bag, which was fastened with a padlock, and cut it open in the presence of the suspect. Meanwhile, another officer continued the pursuit and successfully apprehended the fleeing individual.
Upon returning to the residence with the suspect, investigators discovered that the individual had been actively packaging narcotics for distribution.
A police spokesperson confirmed the contents of the seized backpack, which included 350 bankies of tik, 175 full Mandrax tablets, and 136 bankies of khat. The total estimated street value of the confiscated drugs is approximately R16,000.
The 23-year-old suspect has been formally arrested on charges of dealing in drugs. He is expected to make his first appearance at the Despatch Magistrate’s Court soon to face the charges.
