Three suspects, Nhlakanipho Khumalo (30), Ernest Zondo (39), and Zephrid Hlongwane (36), were remanded in custody by the Volksrust District Court today, 12 June 2025, on charges of dealing in dagga.
The suspects were arrested in the early hours of this morning at approximately 00:30 by members of Wakkerstroom SAPS during a routine stop-and-search operation. Officers stopped a silver-grey Toyota Corolla carrying three occupants. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found to be loaded with four large bags of dagga.
The total weight of the seized dagga is 93 kilograms, with an estimated street value of R558,000.
The suspects are expected to appear again at the Wakkerstroom Magistrate’s Court on 18 June 2025. They will remain in custody until their next court appearance.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, has welcomed the arrests and praised the officers involved. “This arrest demonstrates the dedication of our members to their oath to serve and protect. I appreciate their integrity and commitment to justice. I also trust that the National Prosecuting Authority will act accordingly,” said the General.
