DURBAN – After receiving a tip-off from the Phoenix community about drugs being sold at a tuckshop in the area, police have arrested a drug dealer.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Thembeka Mbele said police officers from the Durban Flying Squad were performing crime prevention duties when they received the information.
Mbele said the team proceeded to the tuckshop, situated on Norris Park Drive and on arrival they met the owners of the tuckshop, who were also at the premises.
While talking to the owners, Mbele said police spotted a male holding a duvet cover.
“When he was questioned about the duvet he stated that he was asked to throw it outside the premises by a woman on the same premises. The duvet was opened and a bag was found wrapped inside,” she said.
Mbele said police discovered 22 pieces of Cat, 14 pieces of rock cocaine, packets of crystal meth and two bags of cocaine inside the bag.
In addition, police found R940 in cash and 2.5kg of dagga at the back of the tuckshop.
“The 42-year-old suspect was placed under arrest for being in possession of drugs,” said Mbele.
During the operation, Mbele said police officers were insulted and threatened by the owners of the tuckshop.
“We would like to advise members of the community that we will continue to carry out our mandate to arrest the perpetrators of crime without fear and favour. We will not be intimidated by citizens who insult our police officers who are executing their duties.
“We will ensure that the events that were fortunately captured on video are investigated and those who are sympathetic to drug dealers will be brought to book,” said the police.
Police said the suspect was expected to appear in court today.
THE MERCURY