Mongi Eugene Sibandze (29) and Skhumbuzo Remember Ngidi (26) appeared before the Vryheid Magistrates’ Court on charges of possession of dagga, bribery and corruption. They were remanded in custody until 1 June 2021.
On 12 May 2021 the Vryheid Trio Crime Task Team were conducting routine patrols when they came across a vehicle travelling at a high speed. A chase then ensued and the vehicle was intercepted. Upon searching the vehicle, the police discovered 17 bales of dry dagga wrapped in black plastics.
The estimated street value of the recovered dagga is R250 000-00.
Skhumbuzo Ngidi offered the police officers a bribe of R6300-00 and an additional charges of bribery and corruption were added. The cash was also seized by police. The suspect’s vehicle was also impounded for further investigation.
Just after midnight, a multi-disciplinary operation was conducted on the R34 Vryheid /Melmoth Road. Whilst the team was patrolling, they spotted two vehicles with Durban registration numbers and with tinted windows. The vehicles were stopped and 19 bales of counterfeit shoes were found inside the vehicle.
The other vehicle attempted to evade arrest but was intercepted along R34 next to Vryheid Indoor Centre with 23 bales of counterfeit shoes. Two suspects aged 37 and 39 were placed under arrest for being in possession of counterfeit goods.
The estimated street value of the recovered goods is R290 000-00. The suspects are appearing before the Vryheid Magistrates’ Court.
