By Jonk wa Mashamba
Editor-In-Chief
The acting provincial head of the Hawks, Brigadier Gregory Gaillard appeals to the community of Mpumalanga to join the dedicated members of the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation based in Middelburg who are working tirelessly to eradicate drugs in Nkangala District by providing information on drug dealers and premises.
The call came after information from National Crime Intelligence about three accused who allegedly bought drugs (heroin and rock cocaine) in Springs, Gauteng to be transported to Mpumalanga.
The information about the trio, driving a gold Toyota Corolla, was received and followed by the Hawks, National Crime Intelligence and Middelburg K9 on Tuesday, 11 April 2023 in Leslie.
“The team conducted an intelligence driven operation whereby they placed themselves strategically in order to arrest the suspects.
“It is further alleged that on the same day at about 20:30, the vehicle was spotted and stopped on R29 Leslie Road.
“Upon searching the vehicle, 2100 pieces of heroin, 267 pieces of rock cocaine concealed behind the cabin and inside the gear.
“A Toyota Corolla which was used during the commission of crime was also confiscated with a total value of R186 000.00,” said Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi
Sekgotodi said the trio were immediately arrested and charged for contravening the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act.
Ndumiso Hlongwane (30), Mthenjwa Zondo (25) and Sbusiso Mazibuko (40) appeared before the Leslie Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, 12 April 2023 and the case was postponed to 17 April 2023 for verification of the addresses. The investigation continues, said Sekgotodi.
