Patrick Bongumenzi Thwala (48), has been convicted by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court for charges of dealing in dagga valued at approximately R2.6 million.
Thwala was arrested at the premises in Buccleuch near Johannesburg, along with a 39 year old accomplice following an intelligence driven operation by the Hawks’ Narcotics Enforcement Bureau, Crime Intelligence Counter Narcotics and Border Policing after it came to light that they were transporting a large quantity of dagga.
The consignment of (532,5 kg) of dagga that originated from Neighbouring Swaziland was recovered from a motor vehicle and also from the house where they were arrested. Thwala pleaded guilty for possession and dealing in dagga whilst his accomplice was acquitted following the admission.
The court has sentenced Thwala to a four and eight years concurrent prison terms for both charges, suspended for five years, with an option of a R20 000 fine provided he is not found guilty of a similar offence during the period of suspension.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
