The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested two Nigerian nationals and seized suspected drugs estimated at R1.5 million (about N125 million) during an operation in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape Province.

SAPS said in a statement on Sunday that the arrests and seizure were made on Thursday, August 27, 2026, during Operation Ukubuza in the Central area of Gqeberha.

The two Nigerians were identified as 36-year-old Kelvin Ike and 52-year-old Okeke Joseph Sunday.

According to the police, officers acted on information about suspected drug dealing activities in Parliament Street, Central, leading to the arrest of two men allegedly found in possession of suspected drugs.

A third man was also arrested after he was found with a large amount of cash which he allegedly could not satisfactorily explain. Police said an inquiry had been opened concerning the money.

During the operation, a police K9 officer reportedly noticed a white Mercedes-Benz B200 Turbo parked in the area, with suspected drugs visible inside.

“A search of the vehicle and its immediate surroundings resulted in a plastic bag containing suspected drugs being found near the rear tyre,” SAPS said.

Police subsequently traced the owner of the vehicle, who reportedly confirmed that he had been renting it out and gave officers permission to search it.

“During the search, a suspect was found hiding in the boot of the vehicle,” the statement said.

A key found in the suspect's possession allegedly led officers to a flat, where they conducted another search.

Police said the search resulted in the seizure of various suspected drugs, including dagga, tik, khat, cocaine and mandrax tablets.

Officers also confiscated numerous smoking pipes, insulin syringes, a portable measuring scale and an undisclosed amount of cash.

“Additional suspected drugs and insulin needles were also confiscated from the Mercedes-Benz,” SAPS said.

The two Nigerians, Ike and Sunday, were arrested on charges relating to possession of drugs and appeared before the Gqeberha Magistrate's Court.

Their case was adjourned until Monday, August 31, 2026.

The 42-year-old suspect arrested on a charge of dealing in drugs is also expected to appear before the same court on Monday.

Acting NMB District Commissioner Brigadier Loyiso Ngalo commended the officers involved in the operation for their response to the intelligence received.

“The swift response to the information received” helped remove a significant quantity of suspected drugs from the streets, Ngalo said.

He added that operations targeting drug dealers and other criminal activities would continue as SAPS intensifies efforts to disrupt criminal networks and create safer communities.