By OBAKENG MAJE

Six suspects were arrested by police for dealing in drugs in Hartswater on 12 March 2024. According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Molefi Shemane, the police arrested four Nigerian nationals aged 29, 36, 38 and 54, a South African man (36) and a South African woman (22).

Shemane said the police received a tip-off regarding the alleged sale of drugs at three premises in Hartswater. He further said three identified locations were allegedly raided respectively.

“A collective group consisting of members of Vala Umgodi under the overall Command of Colonel Jacob Moloi and Operational Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Tumi Seleke, the Kimberley Tactical Response Team (TRT), Kimberley Public Order Police (POP), Crime Intelligence, Pretoria Crime Scene Management (CSM) and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) conducted the search.

“During the search and seizure actions, the police raided the suspected drug houses simultaneously in Verwoerd and Sandrock Streets in Hartswater. A significant amount of drugs were seized, including Crystal Meth (Tik) with an estimated street value of R 286 700,” said Shemane.

He added that, mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of R 25 000, Cat with an estimated street valued of R 17 182, as well as  mandrax and sachets of nyaope were also seized. Shemane said nine cellphones, three cellphone charges and cash believed to be the proceeds of drug sales were confiscated.

“The suspects will appear in Hartswater Magistrates Court soon,” said Shemane.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, applauded the police and external role players involved in the execution of Operation Vala Umgodi for their continous efforts towards the prevention of crime in the province.

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