Hawks hunt Mozambican suspect who skipped court in Standerton mandrax lab case

The Hawks are appealing to the public for information that could lead to the arrest of a 36-year-old Mozambican national wanted in connection with a multimillion-rand clandestine mandrax manufacturing operation in Standerton, Mpumalanga.

Cardoso Missuque allegedly failed to appear before the Standerton Regional Court on 17 July 2026 after being released on bail.

Missuque was previously remanded in custody while awaiting trial for his alleged primary role in a clandestine mandrax manufacturing laboratory discovered in underground shipping containers at Rooikoppen Farm in Standerton in April 2025.

The Hawks said the laboratory was linked to a massive, multimillion-rand drug manufacturing operation.

Missuque faces charges relating to the manufacturing and dealing in illicit drugs, possession of precursor chemicals and industrial drug-manufacturing machinery, as well as absconding from court.

A warrant for his arrest has since been issued.

Missuque is described as being of medium build, with a dark complexion and short black hair. His last known address was in Standerton.

Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to contact Crime Stop anonymously on 08600 10111 or investigating officer Warrant Officer Xoli Sibanyoni on 082 780 2238.

Information can also be provided to Lieutenant Colonel Magonseni Nkosi on 071 481 3437.

The Hawks said all information received will be treated with strict confidentiality and that anonymity is guaranteed.