According to Sgt Peace Mbokane, Elukwatini police spokesman, Thomas Amos Thwala (33) was arrested last Monday by officers who received a tip-off by community members.

“Constables Mandla Zwane, Bandele Ndzimande and Pikinini Mkhonto were out on crime-prevention duties when they received a lead about a man who was dealing in and kept nyaope in his house.

When the police arrived at the place the tip-off led them to, they found the suspect in his room and on the table, there were 19 nyaope sachets encompassed by cash notes to the value of R410. The drugs were seized and they are estimated to have a street value of R760, as each (sachet) is estimated to cost R40,” said Mbokane.

He said the suspect was lost for words when the officials approached him and started to search his house.
“He couldn’t even give a straight answer when asked what the sachets contained and who they belonged to. The money, which was found on the table together with the drugs, was suspected to have been sourced from the suspect’s clients,” added Mbokane.

Thwala appeared in court and was charged with the possesssion of and dealing in drugs. He admitted guilt and was fined R500.

Elukwatini station commander, Col Mfundisi Patrick Makamu, was pleased with the members’ concerted efforts.

“I am glad our days of dealing with the small fries are over. Elukwatini station area is limping and gangrened by the negative impact of the nyaope drug and this arrest has surely been a good day of small beginnings. It is never too late for local drug dealers to relinquish their acts, otherwise they must brace themselves for a life between the rock and a hard place,” he said.