Security warns residents about drug syndicate
NORTH RIDING - Local drug syndicate come up with new strategy.
Residents and shoppers around Banbury Cross Village, in North Riding, are warned to be vigilant.
This is after three men allegedly belonging to a drug syndicate was bust on Northumberland Avenue.
According to Victor Siwela, owner of the centre’s security companies Xplorenation and I’D Proctors Security, the syndicate targets residents visiting the shopping centre and its surrounds.
“The drug dealers now come up with a new plan. They don’t carry the drugs, but hide it somewhere outside the mall because they are aware of our stop and search method,” said Siwela.
Siwela said the men carefully identify people interested in buying drugs to accompany them to their hidden drugs corners.
He said, “What they do is to approach and ask passers-by if are looking for “something”.
Siwela said after conducting an undercover investigation, they set up a trap on 25 September, and sent a private investigator to go buy drugs from the men.
“We gave our undercover man a R200 note. Three men approached and asked him to follow them to their place where the drugs were. That’s how we got them,” said Siwela.
He said it is tough but they are making progress in the fight against drugs.
Honeydew Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Karen Jacobs confirmed it was a JMPD operation.
JMPD spokesperson Chief Superintendent Wayne Minnaar said that his officers received a tip-off that there were men approaching residents and selling drugs.
“The officers went to the place and found the guys and searched them. Cat [Methcathinone] was found in their possession,” he said.
WO Jacobs said three men aged 28, 32 and 37 were arrested and charged with possession of drugs.
Related articles
Gladiator Internet Café responds to drug allegations
UPDATE: Gun manufacturers face law
Cops impressed with major drugs bust
