The Assets Forfeiture Unit secures preservation order for alleged drug lab in Riverhorse Valley

The Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU) in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) has obtained a Preservation of Property Order from the Durban High Court for a warehouse (immovable property) situated in Riverhorse Valley in Durban. The property, which is valued at over R29.7 million, was seized on the basis that it was instrumental in the commission of the offence of manufacturing and dealing drugs.

Ms Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, regional spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said on March 6, 2024, the Department for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) officials entered the property after receiving information regarding drug dealing.

“Various drug manufacturing paraphernalia as well as large amounts of chemicals and waste materials or sludge were found on the property. The property was used to facilitate or make possible the manufacture of drugs,” said Ms Ramkisson-Kara. “Reports from the South African Police Service Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) confirmed that the types of exhibits found on the property are alike to those found at the scene of a clandestine drug lab.”

This Section 38 Preservation Order was successfully obtained by Advocate Ms Beverley Mothilall, Ms Ramkisson-Kara added. The property will remain in the custody of the curator pending a forfeiture application. A criminal investigation is also underway.

“The success of this application is due to the joint efforts of the DPCI and the NPA (AFU) in KZN, proving that stakeholder collaboration is key in the fight against crime,” said Ms Ramkisson-Kara.