The City of Cape Town has initiated emergency talks with the Western Cape’s Police Oversight and Community Safety Department amid growing concern over the abuse of codeine-based cough syrup by young children – some reportedly as young as seven years old.
Speaking out after multiple incidents came to light, Safety and Security Mayco Member JP Smith confirmed that children were obtaining the syrup – commonly mixed with fizzy drinks to form the intoxicating concoction known as ‘lean’ – from local dealers and unlicensed vendors.
“This is not just about a cough mixture,” Smith warned.
“We are calling on the public to report anyone – individuals or businesses – putting these substances in the hands of children.”
Syrup Bottles, Drug Ledgers Found in Lavender Hill
A recent joint operation in Lavender Hill, involving law enforcement, metro police, and traffic services, uncovered alarming evidence: numerous empty cough syrup bottles discarded in public spaces, and a suspect found in possession of multiple sealed bottles, cash, and drug ledgers.
Despite the seriousness of the findings, SAPS officers on scene allegedly declined to lay charges, claiming the product is legal.
Smith pushed back, citing that bulk sales of codeine-containing medication without a licence is unlawful, and noted that other police stations have previously pursued cases in similar contexts.
“It’s deeply concerning, especially when we know there have been reports of this syrup being misused as a date rape drug,” Smith added.
Call for Consistent SAPS Action
Smith confirmed that the matter is being escalated to Western Cape Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC Anroux Marais, calling for SAPS to adopt a standardised approach when dealing with codeine-related abuse.
Residents are being urged to report any suspicious activity involving illegal syrup sales, particularly to minors.
Reports can be made anonymously through:
- Tip-off line: 0800 110 077
- Emergency line: 107 (from a landline)
“The community plays a vital role,” Smith concluded.
“We must work together to prevent further harm to our children.”
Have you ever suffered from an addiction to anything?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
