Staff Reporter
A suspected drug peddler was arrested this Monday after he was found in possession of dagga in the Ashbury area of Heidedal in Bloemfontein.
The 31-year-old got himself in further trouble when he allegedly attempted to buy his freedom with a R100 bribe that he offered to the police officers who nabbed him.
He is expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court on Wednesday facing drug dealing and corruption charges.
In a statement, Mangaung Metro police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Covane said the suspect was arrested during a crime prevention operation conducted by officers from Heidedal Police Station on Monday.
“During the patrols, the support commander, Captain Masolane, and Sergeant Mokgothing spotted a vehicle driving away from the target address in Ashbury and stopped it at about 12:00,” he said in the statement.
“They approached the vehicle and asked for permission from the driver to search the vehicle which he granted.
“Two big (packets) and 31 small ones containing dried leaves of dagga plants were found hidden in the vehicle.
“The 36-year-old African male then offered the police R100 as bribery so that he can be released.
“The suspect was arrested for possession and dealing with drugs as well as corruption.”
The suspect has been detained in custody as he awaits his appearance in the Bloemfontein Magistrates Court on Wednesday.