Five people, the youngest aged 21, have appeared in court after the Hawks found a drug laboratory worth an estimated R100m on a farm outside Krugersdorp.
NPA spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole said Trent Coetzer, 36, Nakedi Makwesi, 44, Evan-Lee Mohapi, 25, Donell Coetzer, 28, and Lyle Johnson, 21, appeared in the Krugersdorp Magistrate's Court on Monday.
The five were charged with manufacturing and dealing in illegal drugs.
Mohlatlole said police found the laboratory when they searched the farm in Hekpoort, near Krugersdorp, with a search warrant.
"It is alleged that law enforcement authorities received information regarding suspected illegal drug manufacturing activities at the premises," Mohlatlole said.
"The five accused were arrested at the scene.
"Preliminary estimates place the value of the laboratory and its contents at approximately R100m.
"The National Prosecuting Authority remains committed to working closely with law enforcement agencies to combat organised crime and to ensure that those involved in the manufacture and distribution of illegal drugs are held accountable before the law."
The operation was led by the Hawks' Narcotics Bureau, working with SAPS Crime Intelligence at head office, the Special Task Force and the West Rand K-9 Unit.
The case was postponed to next week Wednesday so the accused's home addresses could be verified and a formal bail application heard.
All five remained in custody.
IOL