By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
A joint operation conducted by members of Emahlathini Boarder Policing and members of South Africa National Defence Force has led to the recovery of 49 bags of dagga weighing 472.144 kilograms with an estimated street value of about R1 983 004.80.
A tipoff from community members was received by SAPS members who collaborated with the SANDF members in executing the operation.
The identified scene, according to Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, was closely monitored and it was during this period when a group of alleged dagga smugglers were spotted.
Mohlala said when the team tried to corner them, the suspects immediately ran for their lives, crossing the boarder line from South Africa into The Kingdom of Eswatini. No arrest was made.
“In a separate incident in Jeppes Reef, a task team from Border Policing arrested a 23-year-old suspect for alleged possession of 1,12 kilograms of dagga with an estimated street value of about R4 741-00.
“The team’s hard work further resulted in the arrest of a 21-year-old foreign national from the Kingdom of Eswatini for alleged possession of gold bearing material.”
Both suspects appeared at Tonga Magistrate’s.
“Extra two suspects aged 30 and 32 appeared at Bushbuckrigde Magistrate’s Court.
” The suspects, both foreign nationals also from the kingdom of Eswatini were reportedly found with 11 bags of dagga weighting 157 kg which is valued at R625 000.
“It is alleged that the suspects were from the kingdom of Eswatini and enroute to Tzaneen when they were caught by the men and women in Blue,” said Mohlala.
Mohlala said the SAPS management in Mpumalanga emphasized that these successes were a true reflection that the Police in partnership with other law enforcement agencies meant business in the fight against trafficking of all types of drugs and these activities by the law enforcement agencies would continue until the battle was won.
“The great efforts and dedication portrayed by the members are commanded,”Mohlala concluded.
