3 people arrested in Cleveland, Gauteng as Hawks seize substantial quantity of drugs! Three Mozambican nationals were arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) for possession of illicit drugs during a coordinated operation in Gauteng.
The suspects were apprehended on Monday, December 2, 2024, as law enforcement agencies disrupted a significant drug trafficking network.
Coordinated Operation in Cleveland
Hawks spokesperson, Captain Lloyd Ramovha, detailed the events leading to the arrests. The operation targeted drug trafficking activities in the Cleveland policing precinct, following intelligence about a vehicle involved in drug dealing.
“This was a result of a coordinated effort by the Johannesburg serious organised crime investigation, the South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau, and the Trafficking in Persons Unit,” Ramovha explained.
Arrest and Seizure
Acting on the intelligence received, authorities tracked down a gold Toyota Avensis suspected to be linked to drug dealing activities. The vehicle was stopped in Kensington, where a thorough search revealed a hidden compartment behind the back seats. Although initially empty, further inspection of the car’s boot uncovered five containers of crystal meth, weighing five kilograms.
The estimated street value of the seized drugs is R1.3 million, a significant haul in the fight against illegal narcotics in Gauteng.
The arrested individuals were identified as:
- Alexandre Alberto Chissano (62)
- Raul Silvadore Homo (51)
- Antonio Lisboa (33)
The trio, all Mozambican nationals, was immediately detained, and the Toyota Avensis was impounded as evidence.
Court Appearance
The three suspects appeared before the Johannesburg Regional Court on Wednesday, charged under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act.
The court has postponed the case to December 11, 2024, for further proceedings. Authorities are expected to use this time to build a comprehensive case against the accused, ensuring that all legal avenues are explored to secure convictions.
Warning from Hawks
The Gauteng head of the Hawks, Major General Ebrahim Kadwa, issued a stern warning to drug traffickers operating within the province:
“This operation highlights our commitment to dismantling drug networks that harm our communities. Those involved in the illegal trade of drugs should know that we are watching, and their actions will not go unpunished.”
Kadwa emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement agencies to tackle the scourge of drug trafficking.
Impact of the Arrest
The arrests and seizure are seen as a significant step in curbing the flow of illegal drugs into local communities. Crystal meth, commonly known as “tik” in South Africa, has devastating effects on users, families, and society as a whole.
This operation not only removed a substantial quantity of drugs from circulation but also disrupted a network that posed a serious threat to public safety.
The Fight Against Drug Trafficking
The arrest of Chissano, Homo, and Lisboa underscores the Hawks’ dedication to eradicating organized crime, particularly drug trafficking. Collaborative efforts like this operation demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and multi-agency coordination.
While this success is commendable, experts note that it is just one step in a larger battle. Authorities must continue to pursue the suppliers, distributors, and financiers behind such operations to dismantle the entire network.
Community Involvement
Major General Kadwa also called on the public to play an active role in the fight against drug trafficking. “We urge communities to report any suspicious activities to the authorities. Together, we can protect our neighborhoods from the devastating impact of drugs.”
Looking Ahead
As the case moves forward, the focus will be on ensuring justice is served and that these arrests act as a deterrent to others involved in drug-related activities. With the Hawks intensifying their efforts, the message is clear: there is no room for drug trafficking in South Africa.
This operation is a testament to what can be achieved when law enforcement agencies work together, and it provides hope for safer communities free from the grip of illegal drugs.
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