Local Hawks seized an assortment of drugs valued at close to R300 000, in Newcastle’s CBD, apprehending eight illegal immigrants.
Speaking with Newcastillian News, Hawks spokesperson Captain Simphiwe Mhlongo explained that on Thursday, 12 January 2023, the Hawks members from Newcastle Serious Organised Crime Investigation, assisted by the National Intervention Unit, Tactical Response Team, Newcastle Vehicle Crime Investigation and an Immigration Officer from the Department of Home Affairs, descended on the 37-year-old man at Van Kampen Ville on Murchison Street, Newcastle.
Captain Mhlongo said, “Members received information about the suspect, who was dealing in drugs in the area, and a joint operation was conducted. Members swooped on the suspect’s house and a search was conducted.”
During the search, police found crystal meth, cocaine powder, pieces of crack cocaine and a solid block of crack cocaine. According to Captain Mhlongo, the estimated value of the illicit substances stands at approximately R290 850.
“An amount of R32 950, suspected to be the proceeds of crime, was also confiscated,” said Captain Mhlongo.
The suspect was subsequently placed under arrest and charged with dealing drugs and contravention of the Immigration Act.
During the massive drug bust, Captain Mhlongo added, “Seven more illegal immigrants, aged between 25 and 62, were also arrested in the vicinity.”
The apprehended immigrants are now expected to appear in the Newcastle Magistrate Court.
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