By Kopano Dibakwane
A police captain was nabbed while allegedly trafficking 22.48 kg of dagga with an estimated street value of R33,720. The incident reportedly occurred within a plantation in Sabie, near Mbombela in Mpumalanga.
According to a statement released by SAPS spokesperson, Brigadier Selvy Mohlala, the “shameful” act was uncovered by private security guards who were patrolling the area and came across the captain alongside an accomplice. The accomplice allegedly escaped on foot, leaving the captain behind.
” The guards reportedly saw two males, one being a SAPS captain, though not wearing uniform, whilst the other one was wearing SAPS boiler suit. It is further alleged that the two were in possession of some bags of dagga which were wrapped in sellotape. It’s said that they were busy putting the luggage into some black refuse bags,” said Mohlala.
The captain allegedly tried to escape by using the police bakkie, but he was cornered by the security guards.
Mohlala added that the police captain allegedly tried to bribe the security guards, begging them to let him go.
” The police captain is alleged to have promised to offer one bag of dagga to be sold for their profit or else he will sell it then give back the money. However, the security officers are said to have refused the offer.
” The officer was then apprehended and the police is Sabie were notified about the shameful incident. The member was charged for dealing in dagga, use of motor(state) vehicle without the owner’s consent, attempting to defeat the ends of justice and corruption ,” said Mohlala.
The suspect is reportedly expected to appear at the Sabie magistrate’s court on Monday 3 April, to face the said charges.
