Police and role players arrest trio

The fight against illicit drug trafficking in North West Province scored a significant victory on Monday, 9 December 2024, when three suspects were arrested and a substantial haul of dagga was confiscated. The arrests were made following an intelligence-driven operation conducted by police, in collaboration with other role players, including a private security company.

The operation was initiated after a special task team was formed in Potchefstroom in October 2024 to investigate a drug trafficking syndicate allegedly transporting large quantities of dagga between Gauteng and North West provinces. On the day of the operation, law enforcement successfully intercepted two vehicles suspected to be involved in the illegal trade.

In Potchefstroom, a Toyota Hilux with two occupants – a man and a woman – was stopped by police. The vehicle was found to be carrying 440 kilograms of dagga. The pair, identified as Monica Mnyakeni (60) and Gerald Mnyakeni (25), were arrested on the spot.

Meanwhile, another Toyota Hilux was stopped on the N12 road in Bloemhof, where the driver, Khumbo Mahlalela (24), was apprehended after the vehicle was found loaded with 259 kilograms of dagga. The two vehicles were en route to Kimberley in the Northern Cape Province, where it is believed the drugs were to be distributed. Both vehicles have been confiscated as part of the investigation.

Further investigations revealed that a fourth suspect, who attempted to bribe a police officer by depositing R20,000 into the officer’s account, is still at large. Law enforcement agencies are continuing their efforts to locate this individual.

Monica and Gerald Mnyakeni appeared in the Potchefstroom Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 12 December 2024. They were remanded in custody and will appear again on Wednesday, 18 December 2024, for their next court hearing.

In Bloemhof, Khumbo Mahlalela made his first appearance in court on Wednesday, 11 December 2024. He was also remanded in custody and will return to court on Monday, 23 December 2024, for a bail application.

The arrest of the trio and the confiscation of a large quantity of dagga have been hailed as a significant success in the ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region. Police have vowed to continue their investigations and bring all those involved to justice.

The Police Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, commended the officers and all involved for their diligence and successful operation, stating that it serves as a reminder of their commitment to fighting organized crime and keeping communities safe.