Members from Gert Sibande District Highway Patrol nabbed a 36-year-old Nigerian in Bethal on December 15 for possession of substances suspected to be drugs.

According to Bethal police spokesman, Sergeant Thomas Mogadime, the police received a tip-off about drugs that were kept at the suspect’s residence in Bethal.

During a search of the residence, the police found a black plastic bag containing different types of drugs with an estimated street value of R71 000. These included 30 Mandrax tablets, 300g crystal meth and 250g Tik.

The Nigerian was arrested and the drugs were seized.

Mogadime said the suspect allegedly tried to bribe the police officers with R1 000 in exchange for his freedom. However, an additional charge of bribery was added. The money was seized and will form part of the investigation.

The suspect was also found in possession of an expired asylum paper. The investigators have contacted the Department of Home Affairs to ascertain if the suspect is legally in the country.

The man is appearing in the Bethal Magistrate’s Court today to face charges of possession of drugs, contravention of the Immigration Act, and bribery.

ALSO READ: eMbalenhe SAPS closes 16 days of activism with GBV fun walk

ALSO READ: WARNING – GRAPHIC PHOTOS: Bethal woman found guilty on charges of animal cruelty