PICS | Drugs Worth R1.2m found hidden in car tyres and body during Mpumalanga bust

Drugs

Mpumalanga – Two Nigerian nationals, Ikemukwu Benjermin Ezirim (39) and Christian Valentine Uchenna (37), were arrested on Thursday, 28 November 2024, during a multidisciplinary operation targeting drug dealers in Volkrust, Mpumalanga.

The operation, led by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) and supported by various units including Secunda-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Standerton K9 Unit, and ACSU Security, followed intelligence regarding drug activities at an identified address.

Upon arrival, the suspects attempted to dispose of evidence by flushing drugs down the toilet.

“The suspects were apprehended and taken to the vehicle where more drugs were found hidden in the body of the vehicle and tyres.

“During the search, it was discovered that the two suspects are without valid documents. They were arrested, charged and detained,” police spokesperson Captain Dineo Lucy Sekgotodi said.

The total estimated value of the drugs seized is R1.2 million.

The suspects appeared in the Volkrust Magistrates Court on Friday, 29 November 2024, and the case was postponed to 9 December 2024 for a bail application. Both remain in custody.

Seized items included:

  • Cash amounting to R2,000.
  • Five cellphones worth an estimated R15,000.
  • A silver weighing scale valued at R200.
  • A silver Mercedes-Benz C180 valued at R400,000.

Provincial Hawks Head Major General Gerber praised the operation and thanked community members for providing information that led to the arrests and seizure.

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