SAPS
BLOEMFONTEIN – The South African Police Service’s Tactical Response Team (SAPS TRT) has netted three alleged drug dealers during a series of intelligence-driven operations in Mangaung Metro Area. The individuals, aged 30, 35, and 37, were arrested in separate locations, namely the Caleb Motshabi Informal Settlement, the Kagisanong Police Station precinct, and the Bloemfontein CBD.
Lt Col Thabo Covane, spokesperson for the SAPS, detailed how the Tactical Response Team operationalised intelligence on drug trafficking networks. “Operation Shanela has been bringing us much success in the past week,” Lt Col Covane declared, referring to the wider initiative targeting criminal activities.
Inside the Caleb Motshabi Informal Settlement, the team first descended upon a house previously identified through intelligence gathering. There, they unearthed zip lock plastic bags stocked with Chrystal Meth and additional bags containing the narcotic known colloquially as Cat drug. An amount of R3,000.00 has been placed as the estimated street value for the contraband obtained at this locale. A 30-year-old male is now in custody, facing charges for possession and distribution of these illegal substances.
Lt Col Covane elaborated on the subsequent raid, which ensued in the city’s central business district. “The operation continued as the team arrived at the next identified address in Bastion Street, Bloemfontein CBD. The 35-year-old male was apprehended for possession and dealing in drugs,” he remarked. The police captured 19 medium-sized zip lock plastics containing Cat drug and loose dagga, with an estimated street worth of R4,300.00. Nearby, a 37-year-old male was also caught with six medium zip lock plastics filled with Chrystal Meth.
Both Kagisanong and Parkweg Police Stations are processing case dockets following these arrests. The suspects are being held until their pending court appearance at Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court, where they will answer to charges related to drug possession and trafficking.
