The police would like to explicitly remind the public that they can still be arrested for certain dagga-related activities.
On 18 September 2018 the highest court in South Africa, the Constitutional Court, ruled to decriminalise the private usage of dagga in the country.
This means that people can now use dagga in their private spaces, such as homes, for recreational or medical uses.
However, Fairland Police Station commander, Lieutenant Colonel Clive de Freitas, reminds the public that the ruling does not allow for usage of dagga in public space.
He emphasised that the ruling only addresses private usage.
“If you are caught in public with it you will be arrested and charged as always.”
The same will apply to individuals caught selling dagga.
The ruling has resulted in any questions from the public that can only be answered once parliament amend current laws, as advised by the court.
De Freitas said local police stations are still awaiting correspondence from police management but will, in the meantime, enforce existing laws.
The selling and public usage of dagga remains illegal in the country and those found to engage in such activities will be arrested and charged.
The public are still encouraged to alert police to any illegal drug dealing happening in the area.
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