Dagga haul has officers seeing green
By: Staff Reporter
In August a weekend ended on a high for Metro Police officers after they seized more than four kilograms of dagga in Fisantekraal.
This bust formed part of a busy week for the City’s enforcement services, which saw 241 suspects arrested and 62 706 fines issued for traffic and by-law transgressions.
Metro Police officers alone made 42 arrests and issued 2 129 fines. One of those arrests was linked to the dagga haul in Fisantekraal.
According to police, officers received a tip-off about drugs being stored at a house in the area. The homeowner granted permission for a search, leading to the discovery of a black bag containing 3,39 kg of dagga, a 221 g parcel, 92 small packets (“bankies”), 93 dagga cigarettes, and an undisclosed sum of cash. The homeowner was arrested for dealing in dagga.
“The devastating impact of drugs on our communities continues long after we’ve taken the dealers off the streets. Not only are families destroyed, but drugs fuel many other crimes and illicit dealings. Despite arrests, suspects are often back on the street a few days later to continue their criminal activities,” said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
“The City’s hands are tied beyond the initial arrest. We can make an even bigger difference with increased powers to investigate these cases. In spite of our limited resources, we’ve proven that we are ready to do more.”
In the same week, Law Enforcement officers made 166 arrests and issued 5 870 notices for various offences.
Traffic Services recorded 54 707 offences and made 34 arrests — 24 for drunk driving, four for reckless and negligent driving, and six for other offences. They executed 883 warrants of arrest and impounded 255 public transport vehicles.
Meanwhile, the Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) responded to 60 vehicle accidents, 78 assault incidents, and 44 domestic violence cases.
Residents can report any emergency by calling the PECC on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone or 107 from a landline.
