Three Arrested in Middelburg After R12 Million Dagga Bust and Failed Bribery Attempt
Three suspects are facing criminal charges following a massive drug bust on the N4 highway, which culminated in a brazen and failed attempt to bribe police officers.
On Monday afternoon at approximately 15:30, members of the Nkangala District Anti-Hijacking Task Team and the Middelburg Flying Squad were conducting routine patrols and stop-and-search operations along the N4 near Vandyksdrift.
Officers intercepted a white Isuzu truck that was traveling at a high speed.
Upon stopping and searching the vehicle, police discovered a green tent covering luggage. Beneath the concealment, they uncovered a massive haul of compressed dagga.
While officers were processing the scene, two men driving a white VW Polo with Mpumalanga registration plates arrived and approached the team. The men attempted to negotiate the release of both the vehicle’s driver and the illicit cargo.
The individuals initially offered the officers a bribe of R12,590.
Despite being explicitly warned against bribery by the police, the suspects increased their offer by an additional R10,000, stating they were desperate to secure the dagga.
Officers rejected the money and immediately arrested the two men on the spot for possession of dagga and corruption.
A total of 55 bags of compressed dagga, weighing 1,680 kg, were seized during the operation. The estimated street value of the drugs stands at R12 million.
Police noted that each bag was meticulously marked with specific names and destinations.
The three suspects, aged between 27 and 33, are expected to appear in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court soon to face charges related to drug possession and bribery.
The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise, highly commended the officers for their professional integrity and the substantial drug seizure.
“We are glad that the members have stood their ground and demonstrated what SAPS stands for,” said Modise.
“We can never allow anyone to corrupt any of our members, and for those who take chances, they will face the full might of the law. We will continue to reduce the space for criminals whilst we applaud the astute members for the job well done.”
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