But what’s in the basket?
JP Bekker is a familiar face on the streets of Ladanna as a vendor of a variety of products. But what people do not know is that JP's business is more diverse than they think
POLOKWANE – JP Bekker is a familiar face on the streets of Ladanna as a vendor of a variety of products.
But what people do not know is that JP’s business is more diverse than they think.
During the day, JP makes beautiful baskets from grass found near the railway tracks and then sells them to people who order from him.
“I make an honest living by selling baskets to people who place orders,” he confirms.
It is the selling of “other things”, which, JP says, brings in more handy cash, that will make most people frown.
He acknowledges people and police officers who pass him by do not know about him also selling drugs. Only the people who buy the drugs from him carry this secret.
“I do not force people to support me, and I do not see the harm in selling drugs as people would simply buy it from someone else if I do not sell it. At least I only sell to willing customers and am not trying to influence more people to use it like other sellers do,” JP states laconically.
He emphasises he does not sell hard drugs which underlines his belief that he is not doing any harm as people only buy dagga from him for recreational purposes.
Westenburg police spokesperson, Capt Mohlaka Masiane, reiterates the police are clamping down specifically on people selling dagga as it is linked with several other crimes.
“Together with community policing forums (CPFs), the police have found over and again where dagga is, crime also rises. We urge members of the public to refrain from supporting drug dealers and to seek the needed assistance when dependent on a drug like dagga,” Mashiane advises.
He warns the police will be acting on the information received and on JP and dealers like him and bring them to justice.
