A suspected drug dealer (27) was arrested and assorted narcotics worth more than R110 000, along with approximately R3 131 in cash, were recovered when Durban Metro Police Service officers and other law enforcement units swooped on a suspected drug den opposite a school in Rydalvale on Friday.
Durban Metro Police spokesperson Colonel Boysie Zungu said: “On 24 July 2026, members of the Durban Metro Police Drug Team and Durban Metro Police EITT, working together with Counter Narcotics KZN Crime Intelligence, successfully executed a search warrant at a suspected drug outlet in Crossvale Place, Phoenix.
“The operation resulted in the arrest of a 27-year-old suspect on charges of dealing in and possession of drugs. The premises, located directly opposite Rydale Park Secondary School, was allegedly being used to supply drugs within the surrounding community.”
According to Col Zungu, police seized 1 069 crack cocaine rocks (“Lacoste”), 26 heroin capsules, one packet of crystal methamphetamine and R3 131 in cash believed to be the proceeds of drug sales. The estimated street value of the seized drugs is approximately R110 811.
“The suspect has been charged and detained for further legal proceedings.
“The Durban Metropolitan Police Service remains committed to removing drugs from our communities and ensuring that schools and neighbourhoods are protected from criminal activity. We encourage residents to continue reporting drug-related offences, as community cooperation remains vital in the fight against crime,” added Col Zungu.
The Durban Metropolitan Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying the fight against drug trafficking and organised crime through intelligence-driven operations.
