Three Swazi nationals who were arrested in separate incidents for possession of 68 dagga bags are expected to appear in the Ermelo Magistrate court today.
They face charges of dagga possession and dealing.
The suspects, including a couple which was on its way to celebrate the lady’s birthday were arrested during Operation Fiela in Ermelo on Friday. They were found in possession of 30 kg dagga worth an estimated value of R45 000.
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While searching the car, the police also became suspicious of a spare wheel whose sound suggested it contained something.
“The male suspect confessed he had more dagga stashed in the tyre. He further volunteered to cut the wheel open. A further 48 dagga bags were found stashed inside the spare wheel,” explained Sgt Peace Mbokane.
The suspects were arrested on the spot. They also told police that they were from the Manzini and were travelling to Pretoria to transfer the goods in exchange for cash. They were both detained at Chrissiesmeer police holding cells.
The third suspect, a Swazi male was arrested during a routine search on the same day.
“His arrest comes after police became suspicious that a false compartment of his car, covering the petrol tank could be used to hide drugs. As a result the rear bumper of the vehicle was removed in order to confirm the police suspicions,” adds Mbokane.
Eleven dagga bags craftily concealed were found there. The suspect told police that he was coming from the Sidvwashini near Mbabane and was on his way to Johannesburg to deliver the cannabis to his potential clients.
All three suspects will appear in court today.
