WESTERN CAPE – Efforts by the Police to eradicate drug trafficking through intelligence-driven approach by operationalizing information received from the public yielded positive results when members attached to Eden Cluster Crime Combatting Team in conjunction with the Eden Crime Intelligence Branch based in Oudtshoorn pounced on known drug dealers and premises in Oudtshoorn yesterday, Monday 15 November 2021.

Armed with search warrants that were issued against these known illegal drug outlets, these members pounced on eleven (11) illegal drug premises in Bridgton, Bongolethu and the greater Oudtshoorn. During these raids members arrested 8 suspects (seven men and a woman) between the ages 18 and 52 in connection with the illegal possession and dealing in drugs.

The members managed to confiscate drugs to the estimated value of about of R274 000-00 which includes 49.5kg Dagga, 413 Mandrax tablets and 12grams of Tik. They also seized R3919-00 in cash that is believed to be the proceeds of the illegal drug trade in Oudtshoorn. In addition to the drugs, members also confiscated power tools to the estimated value of about R20 000-00.

Most of the suspects are scheduled to make their first court appearance in the Oudtshoorn Magistrates’ court today, facing charges of Dealing in Drugs whilst others might appear in the same court tomorrow, 17 November 2021 on a charge of Possession of possible stolen Goods.

The Acting Eden Cluster Commander, Brig Phumzile V Cetyana lauded members involved with the bust for their joint and relentless efforts to eradicate drug distribution in the Southern Cape.

Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen T Patekile, had nothing but praise for those involved in bringing the suspects to book and encouraged members to align themselves with the strategic and operational objectives of the SAPS to ensure that our communities are and stay free from the scourge of Drug abuse.

Source: South African Police Service