Two officers from the Randfontein Police’s Crime Prevention Unit had the nation’s interest at heart and have arrested two men on two charges: dealing in dagga and bribery.
Constable Lucky Matome, West Rand District Police spokesperson said the arrest took place at about 11.30pm on Saturday, 24 August.
“Warrant Officer Bornman and Constable Mathase spotted a suspicious-looking vehicle (bakkie) during their routine patrols which was stopped and searched, leading to the discovery of seven 50kg bags of compressed dagga with an estimated street value of about R180 000. The occupants of the vehicle, aged 30 and 35 years respectively, were immediately arrested. The duo then offered the police a bribe which resulted in an additional charge of bribery against them.”
Also Read:
https://www.citizen.co.za/randfontein-herald/302542/cbd-compound-found-dagga-legal-sell-south-africa-now/
Matome said dealing with corruption is on top of the police’s agenda and members are always being reminded of their obligation to serve with integrity and ethics. This was displayed by both officers, who demonstrated their zero tolerance to bribery, and could not be easily persuaded into risking their careers by criminals.”
He added that the police are currently busy with an investigation to ascertain the origin of the bags of dagga, and where they were being taken to. The bakkie that was used is also a subject of investigation.
The suspects will appear before Randfontein Magistrates’ Court soon.
Major General Fred Kekana, the West Rand District Police Commissioner applauded the officers on a job well done, especially because they removed these drugs from the street and sent a very strong message that not all officers are corrupt.
According to the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act 140 of 1992, a quantity of less than 115g of dagga can be successfully argued as being possessed for personal use. It is, however, likely that a far lesser amount could lead to a suspicion of dealing and possible arrest if found in a person’s possession in public.
“We are making a call for action to the community, to study and familiarise themselves with Judge Zondo’s judgment on dagga/ cannabis. Furthermore, communities are urged to refrain from offering bribes to the police during the execution of their constitutional mandate of serving and protecting the inhabitants of the country. Bribery is by definition ‘dishonestly persuading (someone) to act in one’s favour by a gift of money or other inducement’ and it constitutes an offence that is punishable by the State.
“We are proud to have members who are not tempted by any form of inducement, as removing drugs from our community would save the lives of so many, especially our future leaders, the children,” Kekana said.
