Cape Town - A law enforcement officer was arrested for the possession of 41 000 mandrax tablets with the street value of R1.9 million in Bellville South, the City of Cape Town said on Wednesday.
The arrest was made by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) after receiving a tip-off which led to the drugs being found in two vehicles on the property.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security and Social Services, JP Smith said: "The City is shocked by this incident and will immediately institute pre-suspension procedures."
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security and Social Services, JP Smith speaks about the arrest of a law enforcement official of drug charges.
According to Smith, when arrested, the officer was off-duty and in possession of his firearm which is a breach of protocol.
"While the case is still under investigation, this is of grave concern and we will assist the Hawks where required.
"Incidents like these have the potential to do great harm to the reputation of the City’s enforcement agencies and the hundreds of officers who sacrifice a lot every day to help make Cape Town a safer place," Smith said.
He encouraged the public to not judge officers on the alleged actions of a few.
The accused will appear in court on Thursday.