GARDEN ROUTE – Efforts by police to safeguard and rid communities of drugs yielded excellent results with the confiscation of drugs with an estimated street value of R35 000 with the strategic deployment of various resources in crime ridden areas as part of ongoing weekend crime combatting operations.
Heidelberg police members conducted patrols along the N2 highway on Sunday, 09 October 2022 at about 06:40, when they spotted a person of interest traveling in a Kia Picanto. They mobilised police from neighbouring stations and brought the vehicle to a halt near Slangrivier where they commenced with a search. The vigilance of the members led to the confiscation of 501 mandrax tablets and an undisclosed amount of cash, believed to be proceeds of illicit activities that was found in the vehicle. Police arrested the two occupants, a woman (23) and man (36), on a charge of illegal possession drugs.
On Friday, 07 October 2022, Kwanonqaba police members also patrolled the N2 when they spotted two men hiking along the national road just outside Mossel Bay. While approaching them, one of the men acted suspiciously which prompted police to search the pair. They then found 69 mandrax tablets in the possession of the 52-year-old man. He was subsequently arrested on a charge of illegal possession of drugs.
Meanwhile, last night, 08 October 2022 at about 20:45, Thembalethu police embarked on an operation following information on illicit activities from the public when they descended on a container at Tabata Street, Zone 06, Thembalethu. A search of the container ensued and police found two grocery bags with loose dagga as well as small quantities of dagga “zols” and bankies. They confiscated the dagga and arrested two suspects aged in their early twenties on charges of dealing in drugs.
Later the same day, 08 October 2022 at about 23:30, in Herbertsdale just outside Mossel Bay, police arrested a 54-year-old suspect after 5 grams of tik and 50 mandrax tablets were found in his possession. He is also facing a charge of possession of drugs.
Furthermore, on Friday, 07 October 2022, Still Bay police executed a search warrant through an operation conducted at Harmony Park North, Still Bay where they confiscated 33 litres of liquor. Police arrested a 52-year-old suspect on a charge of selling liquor without a licence.
All those arrested during these successful operations will appear in court once charged.
Western Cape police management lauded those deployed who ensured that drugs and liquor which contributes to serious and violent crimes in communities are removed. These operations remains part of the strategic approach to eradicate alcohol and drugs abuse which threatens the safety of communities.
Source: South African Police Service