Increased illicit drug use are some of the main contributors to the perpetration of violent crimes and every effort must be made to cripple and close down the illegal trade.
On Friday, 14 February 2020, at about 10:45, the Anti Gang Unit acted on information received and executed a search warrant at a house in Barberry Drive, Ext 31 in Bethelsdorp. The unit together with the Tactical Response Team (TRT) and Public Order Policing (POP) thoroughly searched the house inside as well as outside and recovered thousands of mandrax tablets.
At total of 11 604 mandrax tablets, 1397, 5 grams of tik and 7844, 4 grams of dagga was found at the house. The sealed packets of mandrax tablets were found inside and as well as hidden in strategic places in the yard. The total value of the drugs seized is R623 521-00.
Two firearms, a 9mm pistol and a shotgun were found in a bag in the bedroom. The shotgun was reported stolen in Ikamvelihle in August 2016 while the serial number of the 9mm pistol has been filed off. Other seizures included over R31 670-00 cash, 3 scales, 1 cellphone, record books, 21 rounds of ammunition and a bag.
A 19-year-old teenager was arrested and detained on charges of illegal possession of a firearm, possession of a prohibited firearm, illegal possession of ammunition and dealing in drugs.
The suspect will appear in the Port Elizabeth magistrate’s court on Monday, 16 February 2020.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga has welcomed this successful drug bust and stated that the illegal possession of firearms and drugs is a growing concern and it is a fact that participation in the drug markets is known to be linked to gangs.
‘We cannot and will not stand back and allow our neighbourhoods to be controlled by violent thugs. We will not cede one street or corner to these illicit traders. While we appreciate the information from the law abiding citizens on criminal activities in their neighbourhoods, we urge the communities to stand together with the police in our efforts to create a safe and secure environment for all,’ added Lt Gen Ntshinga.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
