“Rock” drug dealer arrested on Kirkland Street, Newcastle

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According to recent reports, Newcastle’s law enforcement apprehended a Nigerian drug dealer with a sizeable amount of a drug commonly known as “Rock”, on Friday last week.

Newcastle Crime Fighter Task Team’s Imran Ghafoor explained that information was supplied to police regarding a man selling narcotics. However, the suspected dealer was not operating from the safety of his house, a normal practice in the drug world. Rather, he was working out in the open, in Newcastle‘s CBD.

With the information on hand, Ghafoor said that law enforcement closely monitored the man and then on Friday afternoon, 12 November 2022, officials pounced on the dealer outside the Bosco parking lot on Kirkland Street.

Following his arrests, 19 parcels of rock were found in his possession and a total of R6 129.20 in cash.

While the man is now in police custody, charged with dealing and possession, Ghafoor did highlight that drug abuse continues to be a huge problem within the town. This sees countless Newcastle residents tapping into the hardcore drug scene, a choice with dire consequences.  

When asked what were the most commonly sought-after drugs in Newcastle, Ghafoor said, “It is Rock and Crystal Meth, especially Crystal Meth.” 

With this in mind, it is worth clearing up a misperception held by Newcastle residents. These drugs are not limited to the poor and poverty. In actual fact, it is the average person, the wealthy, a work colleague, a next door neighbour, or even a friend, who uses these products.

Therefore, do not judge, but rather engage and educate yourself. If you want to see a drug free environment, you need to first remove the public demand for such products. 

Nevertheless, as drugs continue to plague the community, Newcastillians are encouraged to contact law enforcement if they have any information on illicit narcotics being sold.

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