Two months ago, a team was formed in Potchefstroom to clamp down on dagga smuggling between Gauteng and North West. 

They made a breakthrough on Monday (9/12) when police and other role players including a security company followed up on information and stopped a Toyota Hilux in Potchefstroom and found 440kg dagga inside, said North West police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone.

The two occupants, Monica Mnyakeni (60) and Gerald Mnyakeni (25) were arrested and appeared in the local magistrate’s court on Thursday. They remain in custody until their next appearance on Wednesday.

In Bloemhof, another Toyota Hilux was stopped on the N12, where Khumbo Mahlalela (24) was arrested after the vehicle was found loaded with 259kg dagga. He appeared in court on Wednesday and was remanded in custody until Monday (23/12) for a bail application. Investigations continue.

Police confiscated both vehicles, which they established were headed for Kimberley. Officials are still searching for a fourth suspect who attempted to bribe a police officer.

The drugs were stored and sold at various addresses in Garies. Photo supplied

Police Provincial Commissioner Sello Kwena commended all the members who ensured the arrests of alleged drug traffickers.

Meanwhile, in Namaqualand, three suspects (34 to 38) will appear in the Garies Magistrate’s Court soon for illegal dealing in drugs.

The trio was arrested on Tuesday (10/12) after police received information regarding drugs that were stored and sold at various addresses in Garies.

‘Police found Mandrax tablets as well as dagga’

“Upon arrival at the identified addresses, police found Mandrax tablets as well as dagga with an estimated street value of more than R38,000 and cash that is believed to be the proceeds of crime,” said Northern Cape police spokesperson Timothy Sam.

Namakwa District Commissioner Schalk Andrews praised the public for alerting the police to illegal activity. He gave the members credit for responding quickly to community information.

OFM News dg/mvh