By localnew 
The Anti-Gang Unit (AGU), led by Lieutenant Colonel Arends, executed two large-scale search operations at Heidelberg and Boksburg correctional facilities this week, resulting in the seizure of a substantial amount of contraband.
On 8 December 2025, AGU officers — supported by prison management, the Emergency Support Team, and several SAPS units — conducted a coordinated search at Heidelberg Correctional Facility.
More than 100 inmates were searched, leading to the confiscation of:
Cellphones
Chargers and earphones
A laptop
Dagga
Cash
Tattoo equipment
Grocery items
Other prohibited goods
Two days later, the AGU moved to Boksburg Correctional Facility, where they targeted approximately 150 inmates. Officers recovered:
Multiple cellphones
A mini hi-fi system
Chargers
A knife
Dagga
Cash
Additional illegal items
Inmates found in possession of the contraband are now facing additional disciplinary and criminal charges.
Lt Col Arends said the raids were essential in maintaining order inside correctional centres and dismantling criminal networks that continue to operate behind bars.
“These operations are crucial for safety and discipline. We will continue conducting such searches to ensure correctional facilities remain secure and free of illegal activities,” Arends emphasized.
The AGU is expected to carry out more unannounced raids as part of ongoing efforts to curb the flow of contraband into South African prisons.
