According to Nyasa Times and the South African Broadcasting Corporation, authorities in South Africa intercepted a Malawi-registered truck transporting approximately 713 kilogrammes of methaqualone. The chemical is a key component used to manufacture the drug mandrax. The consignment, officially estimated at R1 billion or roughly K106 billion, was discovered at the Beitbridge Port of Entry between South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Border Management Authority officials conducted a rigorous eight-hour physical search after non-intrusive cargo scanners flagged the vehicle. The operation led to the arrest of three individuals, including two Malawians and one Zambian. BMA spokesperson Mmemme Mogotsi stated that the suspects were handed over to the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, known as the Hawks. They are currently detained at the Musina Police Station and are expected to appear in court to face drug trafficking charges.