Crime

Has the Dreaded Zombie Drug, Flakka, Hit Newcastle?

According to Lillian Gajoo, a social worker from the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA), Newcastle has seen two confirmed cases of the notorious drug, flakka.

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“The drug was found in Fernwood during December,” Gajoo reported.

Flakka is known for making its users violent and aggressive. Gajoo emphasised the importance of residents contacting the South African Police Service (SAPS) immediately if they encounter anyone suspected to be under the influence of the drug.

Substance Abuse Concerns in Newcastle

When asked about the broader issue of substance abuse in Newcastle, Gajoo expressed concern about the potential for the problem to escalate if not addressed promptly.

“Dagga is a significant issue in town. It serves as a gateway drug, and many users start mixing it with other substances for a more intense high,” she explained. Other commonly abused drugs include heroin and mandrax.

To combat this growing problem, SANCA aims to establish support groups in schools, as children are more prone to experimenting with drugs than adults.

Law Enforcement Efforts

While SANCA focuses on providing support for those battling addiction, SAPS is working diligently to target drug dealers and bring them to justice. Recently, oSizweni Crime Prevention conducted an operation in Section A after receiving a tip-off about a drug den.

Newcastle SAPS spokesperson, Captain Jabulani Ncube, reported that a man was found in possession of marijuana during the operation. “The recovered dagga has a street value of R60, and the suspect will soon appear in Madadeni Magistrate’s Court,” said Captain Ncube.

In another incident, Newcastle Crime Prevention officers arrested a man for possession of dagga during a Stop-and-Search operation, where another individual was also found with mandrax.

Further investigations into these cases are ongoing.

Reporting and Assistance

Residents are urged to report any drug-related activities to the SAPS by calling 10111. For those struggling with addiction, SANCA is available for support at 034 312 3641.

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