Western Cape detectives recover phones linked to business robbery as K9 Unit arrests suspected drug dealer at Bellville bus depot
Western Cape police have recovered 16 cellphones allegedly stolen during a business robbery in Stellenbosch, while a separate operation in Bellville resulted in the seizure of approximately 5,000 Mandrax tablets worth an estimated R250,000.
In the Stellenbosch investigation, detectives attached to the Provincial Serious and Violent Crimes Unit recovered the cellphones on Friday, 6 November 2026, following an operation prompted by information obtained after the arrest of suspects in connection with a shootout in the area.
The investigation led detectives to an unidentified address in Khayamandi, Stellenbosch, where they seized 16 cellphones believed to have been stolen during the business robbery.
The recovered devices were taken into police custody as part of the ongoing investigation.
The suspects were detained at Stellenbosch police station and are expected to appear before the Stellenbosch Magistrate’s Court once they have been formally charged.
In a separate incident earlier on Friday, members of the Cape Town K9 Unit arrested a 40 year old man at a bus depot in Mabel Road, Bellville, after receiving information that a passenger travelling to Mossel Bay was allegedly in possession of drugs.
The operation took place after police received information from a reliable source.
Following investigations at the depot, officers identified the suspect and searched him and a blue bag in his possession.
The search uncovered approximately 5,000 Mandrax tablets, with an estimated street value of R250,000.
The drugs were confiscated and handed in as exhibits at Bellville police station. The suspect was arrested and charged with dealing in drugs.
He is expected to appear before the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 9 November 2026.
Western Cape Police Spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Frederick C. van Wyk confirmed the arrests.