By Emily Setona
REITZ – Six suspects have been arrested in Petsana, near Reitz, after police uncovered 57 kilograms of dagga during intelligence-driven operations.
The arrests were made on Monday, 18 August 2025, when members of the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Operational Command Centre (Vispol) carried out targeted searches at several houses in the township. Police seized black plastic bags filled with loose dagga along with an undisclosed amount of cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring confirmed the arrests and said the suspects will appear before the Reitz Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 20 August 2025, to face charges of dealing in dagga.
“This success is the result of ongoing intelligence-driven operations aimed at curbing drug-related crimes in our communities,” Mophiring said.
Authorities have raised concerns about the growing trade in dagga and other substances, warning that drug activity often fuels violent crime and social instability. Police say operations like this form part of a broader clampdown in the Free State, targeting networks believed to be driving local distribution.
Community leaders have welcomed the arrests, saying drug abuse continues to destroy young lives and undermine safety in townships such as Petsana.
Police have urged residents to report suspicious activity and assist in identifying drug dealers in their neighbourhoods, stressing that community cooperation is vital in dismantling criminal networks.
