A major drug bust at Steinkopf has led to the seizure of dagga worth approximately R7.7 million, while separate operations in Noupoort and Upington have yielded Mandrax, Tik and hydroponic dagga valued at over R580 000.
According to information, police members stationed at Steinkopf were conducting routine patrols in the early hours of Wednesday 5 November at the N7-R382 junction near town. They observed a suspicious vehicle with boxes loaded on the back. Upon searching the vehicle, officers discovered dagga with a provisional weight of 64.8 kilograms.
“The street value of this specific dagga is estimated at R7.7 million,” stated Captain Ivan Magerman, communication officer of the police in the Namakwa District.
“This major success reaffirms and demonstrates the police’s continued commitment to combating drug trafficking and other related crimes in the Namakwa District. The vigilance and professionalism displayed by the members involved prevented the distribution of illegal narcotics from reaching our communities,” commented Brigadier Schalk Andrews, district commissioner.
Bus passenger arrested
In an unrelated incident in the early hours of Monday 3 November, a multi-disciplinary police team intercepted and removed drugs before they could reach the streets of Noupoort.
Sergeant Molefi Sheman, police spokesperson, said the members acted on information received regarding a man travelling from George to Noupoort who was suspected to be in possession of drugs. At approximately 02:30 on Monday, officers spotted a man matching the description disembarking from a bus.
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A thorough search was conducted which led to the discovery of Mandrax tablets and Tik concealed in the suspect’s luggage. The 31-year-old man was arrested for possession of drugs with an estimated street value of R20 000. He will appear in court soon.
The district commissioner of Pixley Ka Seme District, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, commended the collaborative efforts of the team in preventing the distribution of drugs.
Hydroponic dagga found
In yet another incident in Upington, hydroponic dagga to the estimated value of R360 000 was found on the premises of a man living in the town. The 41-year-old man was arrested and is expected to appear in court soon.
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This followed after police members of the ZF Mcgawu District reacted to a tip-off about a male person allegedly dealing in dagga, said Sergeant Omphile Masegela, police spokesperson. The action formed part of Operation Shanela’s activities from 30 October to 3 November.
Furthermore, in an unrelated incident, a man was arrested in Keimoes, found in possession of Mandrax tablets worth R20 000 during routine patrols.
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