Hawks Officer Admits Mistakes in Cocaine Case

Background of the Seizure

In 2021, Colonel Gavin Jacob, head of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation Unit in Durban, oversaw the seizure of 541 kg of cocaine worth about R200 million. The drugs were later moved from the Isipingo depot to Hawks offices in Port Shepstone, where they were stolen.

Admissions Made Before the Commission

False Claims About Storage Search

Jacob told the Madlanga Commission that he had “exhausted all avenues” looking for secure storage near Durban before sending the drugs over 100 km to Port Shepstone. He admitted he never contacted nearby stations such as Maydon Wharf police to check for space. When pressed, he said calling the statement a lie was harsh, but acknowledged it was “not the truth.”

Inaccurate Diary Entries

He also conceded that his official investigation diary contained false information, including claims that customs officials and Operational Response Service members were present when the container seal was broken.

Procedural Failures

Skipping Required Steps

Jacob admitted moving the cocaine from the Isipingo depot before all processing and documentation were finished. He said the SAPS Local Criminal Record Centre was never called to process the scene and that prescribed exhibit bags were not used to secure the drugs.

Security Concerns and Transport Decision

Questionable Choice of Facility

Previous witnesses said the Hawks’ Port Shepstone offices lacked adequate security. Jacob defended the move, arguing keeping the drugs at the depot posed a greater risk. The commission challenged this, noting a later operation at the same depot seized 999 kg of drugs without incident.

Denial of Involvement

Despite his admissions, Jacob denied any personal role in the disappearance of the cocaine. He suggested that other Hawks members might have colluded with criminals to facilitate the theft.

Conclusion

The Madlanga Commission continues to examine how a R200 million drug haul vanished while under police control. Jacob’s testimony highlights serious lapses in procedure, judgment, and honesty that contributed to one of the biggest evidence‑security breaches in recent years.