The Hawks have started the month of March on a successful note, with significant progress in combating illegal drug activities across the Western Cape.
Two high-profile cases were concluded this week, showcasing the ongoing efforts of the Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB) to tackle drug-related crime.
On 3 March 2025, Jenniffer Gladys Schutte-Muntingh, 67, was fined R50 000 or a five-year prison sentence, which was wholly suspended for five years.
Schutte-Muntingh entered into a plea agreement with the State after facing charges of dealing in drugs- managing a hydroponic lab.
The charges stemmed from a 2021 investigation when the Somerset West Crime Prevention Unit (CPU) received a tip-off about individuals allegedly cultivating cannabis at their residence on Arum Avenue.
Acting on the information, a search was conducted, and the Hawks' SANEB team took over the scene, discovering a fully operational cannabis laboratory.
The operation yielded 85 cannabis plants, 21 capsules suspected of containing THC, CBD oil, and 100 grams of loose cannabis.
The estimated street value of the seized cannabis was R49 600.
Following the investigation, arrest warrants were issued for Schutte-Muntingh and her son.
While the case against her son was later withdrawn, Schutte-Muntingh was convicted and sentenced, marking a significant win for the Hawks in their efforts to curb the illegal drug trade.
In another unrelated operation, the Hawks' SANEB team, with assistance from the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA), uncovered a clandestine steroid manufacturing lab in Paarl on 12 February 2025.
The discovery led to the arrest of a 56-year-old male on 4 March 2025, following an ongoing investigation into the illegal production of steroids.
The operation, which involved a search and seizure at a fully operational lab, uncovered pressing machines, sorting equipment, labelling machines, scales, and ovens, along with powdered substances and suspected Schedule 4 medicines.
The total value of the seized steroids is yet to be determined.
This discovery follows the earlier arrests of 27-year-old suspects Jade Claire Sowter and Raynard Stander, who were apprehended during the raid.
Both suspects were granted R15 000 bail each and appeared in the Paarl Magistrates Court on 14 February 2024. Their case has been remanded to 16 May 2025 for further proceedings.
The arrest of the 56-year-old suspect marks another successful step in the Hawks' campaign to disrupt illegal drug manufacturing and distribution across the region.
Major General Makgato, Provincial Head of the Hawks, commended the teams involved for their professionalism and dedication.
“These operations are vital in protecting our communities and disrupting the illegal drug trade. The team’s hard work in Somerset West and Paarl shows our commitment to fighting drug-related crime across the Western Cape,” he stated.
Both cases are part of the Hawks' broader strategy to address the growing concerns surrounding drug manufacturing, distribution, and consumption in South Africa.
Weekend Argus