Part of the dagga that was confisticated
By Modise Lobelo
MAHIKENG An alleged dagga kingpin was arrested on Monday in Mahikeng with two other suspects aged between 24 and 39.
One of the suspects is an employee of the South African National Defence Force.
The operation by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation and Priority Crime Specialised Investigation, assisted by members of K9, Border Policing Unit and the Asset Forfeiture Unit (AFU), was aimed to dismantle an illegal enterprise that is allegedly extensively involved in elaborate clandestine activities involving dealing in dagga and money laundering.
The Hawks spokesperson in the North West, Captain Tlangelani Rikhotso said, it’s alleged that the trio illegally smuggles dagga from Swaziland and supplies it to the market in Mahikeng and surrounding towns.
Following months of surveillance, evidence gathered further suggests that the suspects are allegedly also involved in money laundering activities involving fixed and movable property.
“In February this year, the main suspect was arrested in possession of dagga worth approximately R600 000 where he was charged with dealing in dagga and has now been allegedly linked to money laundering activities”, Capt. Rikhotso said.
Two BMWs, two Mercedes Benz, a Corsa and a VW Polo belonging to the suspects were subsequently seized as they are believed to be proceeds of crime.
Bags of dagga that were found during the search were also seized.
“The suspects will appear before the Mmabatho Magistrate’s Court on 01 September 2020 where they will be facing charges of dealing in dagga and money laundering”, Capt. Rikhotso concluded.
