DURBAN: A suspect is set to appear in the Durban Magistrate’s Court in KwaZulu-Natal after being apprehended by law enforcement for drug dealing. The arrest follows a meticulously planned operation by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) team in Durban.

According to South African Government News Agency, the operation, conducted by the Hawks on December 11, 2024, resulted in the arrest of a 30-year-old individual involved in drug dealing. The operation was initiated on November 19, 2024, when undercover SOCI officers successfully purchased approximately 20 grams of cocaine powder, valued at an estimated R5,000, from the suspect.

Following this initial transaction, the Hawks sought and received authorisation under Section 252A of the Criminal Procedure Act to execute a second buy and bust operation, which took place on December 11, 2024. During this operation, the suspect was caught in possession of another 20 grams of cocaine powder, similarly valued at R5,000, during a transaction conduct
ed on Old North Coast Road in Durban.

The operation led to the confiscation of cocaine powder with a total estimated street value of R10,000. The suspect now faces two counts of drug dealing and is expected to appear in court on December 12, 2024.

Major General (Dr) Lesetja Senona, the Provincial Head of the KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commended the investigative team’s efforts. He highlighted the Hawks’ ongoing commitment to addressing drug trafficking and related criminal activities in Durban and its surrounding regions.