Three police officers attached to the White River Flying Squad have been arrested for providing safe escort to alleged ‘dagga dealers’. The three were arrested on Wednesday 10 June 2025 on the N4 near the Matsulu junction as the cold front moved over the escarpment.

A police statement says the officers, between the ages of 32 and 49, were apprehended by SAPS from Matsulu who had received a tip-off that they were escorting a vehicle containing millions of rands worth of cannabis. The two occupants of the car, a 44 year-old man and a 34-year old female were also arrested and are to be charged separately. Police say more arrests are expected.

“The three SAPS members were driving in a marked police vehicle and they were in full uniform. The members were on duty at the time and the vehicle, Toyota Corolla was carrying 107 bags loaded with dagga”.

The statement continues: “The members from Matsulu SAPS received intelligence information about the dodgy activities and responded accordingly, and cornered the suspects.

“The three are facing charges in relation to corrupt activities that they were allegedly involved in. These members are also faced with the charge defeating the ends of justice. Other related charges could be added as the investigation continues. The confiscated dagga is estimated to be worth millions of rands, and all suspects are expected to appear at Nelspruit Magistrate's Court on Thursday, 12 June 2025.”

Meanwhile, internal disciplinary actions will be instituted against these members.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi said no one was above the law “and if any member is found to have been on the other side of the law, regardless of whether they are police officers or any law enforcement agencies,the law will  have to take his cause (sic) without any fear or favour.

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