In a coordinated effort, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) and the Hawks, known for their decisive action against crime, have apprehended two individuals—a 48-year-old Nigerian and a 43-year-old South African—for their involvement in drug trafficking.
As per Superintendent Xolani Fihla, JMPD’s spokesperson, the arrests were made following a meticulously planned operation carried out by the JMPD’s tactical response unit in collaboration with the Hawks.
Reports from Independent Online, a reputable foreign news outlet, disclosed that the operation was initiated based on actionable intelligence regarding suspected drug-related activities taking place at the Houghton Hotel in Houghton.
“During a joint operation on 08 April 2024, the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department Tactical Response Unit and the Johannesburg Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation sprang into action,” stated Fihla.
He continued, “The operation was triggered by credible information pointing to suspected drug dealings at the Houghton Hotel. Upon arrival, the team swiftly identified a targeted room. Inside, the male occupant was found in possession of approximately five kilograms of crystal meth, an illicit substance.”
Further investigation led to the identification of another male individual, who was located in the hotel’s restaurant. The room where the drugs were discovered had been rented under this individual’s name.
The confiscated narcotics, estimated to be worth around R800,000 (approximately 53 million), were seized during the operation, dealing a significant blow to the illicit drug trade.
“The apprehended suspects, a 48-year-old Nigerian national and a 43-year-old South African, were promptly arrested and detained at Norwood SAPS,” concluded Fihla.
