According to a media statement from the office of the District Commissioner of Police, Major General Fred Kekana, two suspects, aged between 31 and 34, were arrested by the Bekkersdal Police while they were conducting a roadblock on the N12 near Bekkersdal on Thursday, 17 October.
Sergeant Linkie Lefakane, the Bekkersdal Police spokesperson, said that the incident happened at approximately 10.35am.
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The Bekkersdal Police, accompanied by other law enforcement agencies, was conducting O Kae Molao operations near the Waterpan turnoff when Warrant Officer Daniel Ndumiso stopped a vehicle with two occupants.
“He requested their permission to search the vehicle and on doing so, found a plastic bag containing drugs”, said Sergeant Lefkane.
“The pair refused to acknowledge ownership of the plastic bag and its contents and were both arrested on charges of possession of drugs,” she said.
According to her, the N12 is considered one of the crime hotspots for hijackings. Unsuspecting motorists are robbed of their vehicles while driving along the road. On some occasions, the suspects indicate to other drivers that something is wrong under their vehicles. When the driver stops to investigate, he or she will be dragged to another vehicle before it drives off, dropping the victim in a secluded area. In other incidents, the suspects will be wearing traffic police uniforms.
According to Lefakane, another three suspects aged between 23 and 35 were nabbed in Tarlton for being in possession of a quantity of Miraa (also known as Khat). A total of 26 traffic fines valued at R23 000 were issued for traffic violations, and a hundred and fifty vehicles were searched.
“The motorists were happy to see the police and acknowledged their high visibility. All the arrested suspects are expected to appear before their respective Magistrates’ Courts soon”, she said.
The District Commissioner commended the members for their efforts and for ensuring that law and order is maintained.
