Three people have been arrested following a Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) Drug Unit operation targeting the illegal sale and distribution of medication in Atteridgeville and Olievenhoutbosch on 5 August 2026.
The operation formed part of the department’s ongoing efforts to address the unlawful distribution and sale of medication in communities across Tshwane.
During patrols in Atteridgeville, TMPD officers arrested a 75-year-old woman and her 35-year-old daughter-in-law after they were allegedly found selling cough syrup in contravention of the Medicines Act.
The department said the two women were allegedly involved in the unlawful sale of medication, resulting in their arrest during the operation.
In a separate operation in Olievenhoutbosch, TMPD members arrested a 35-year-old man who was allegedly found selling cough syrup and antidepressant tablets for casual consumption.
According to the TMPD, the arrests highlight concerns surrounding the illegal distribution and sale of medication, which can place members of the public at risk.
The department warned that medication should be obtained through legitimate healthcare channels and used in accordance with appropriate medical guidance. The illegal sale and distribution of medicines can expose consumers to products that may not have been obtained, stored or distributed through authorised channels.
The TMPD said criminal syndicates involved in stealing and illegally distributing medical treatments pose a serious threat to vulnerable members of the community, particularly people who may seek medication outside legitimate healthcare facilities.
The department’s Drug Unit continues to conduct operations aimed at addressing the illegal trade of substances and medication within Tshwane communities.
Local residents welcomed the enforcement operation, with some saying that illegal medication sales could put vulnerable members of the community at risk.
Atteridgeville resident Mpho Modiba said the arrests were important because residents should know where their medication comes from.
“People should be careful about buying medication from people who are not authorised to sell it. You may not know where the medicine came from or whether it is safe to use. I think these operations are necessary to protect the community,” said Mokoena.
Olievenhoutbosch resident Keabetswe Mahlangu said residents should be educated about the dangers associated with purchasing medication through informal channels.
“Some people may buy medication from informal sellers because it is cheaper or more convenient. There needs to be more awareness about the risks and about where people can safely obtain medication,” she said.
Another resident, Kgopolang Chauke said enforcement should be accompanied by efforts to ensure residents can access legitimate healthcare services.
“It is good that the police are taking action, but people also need access to healthcare facilities where they can get the correct medication and advice. Enforcement and education should work together,” he said.
All three suspects were detained at local police stations following their arrests.
The operation has also highlighted the importance of ensuring that residents have access to medication through legitimate healthcare providers and are protected from potentially unlawful or unsafe distribution channels.
Residents are encouraged to obtain medication through authorised healthcare facilities, pharmacies and other legitimate providers. Members of the public are also urged to report suspected illegal medication sales to the relevant authorities.
The TMPD has not provided further details regarding the quantity of medication allegedly found during the operations, the source of the medication or whether the suspects were operating as part of a larger network.
The suspects are expected to face legal proceedings in accordance with the relevant legislation.
Attempts to obtain additional information from the Tshwane Metro Police regarding the charges faced by the suspects, the quantities of medication confiscated and whether the arrests are linked to a wider illegal medication network were unsuccessful at the time of publication.