Woman, driving a Mercedes Benz, arrested in Joburg as police find drugs worth R700,000

A Nigerian woman was arrested in Alberton after she was allegedly found in possession of drugs with around R700,000. Picture: Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD)

A Nigerian woman was arrested in Alberton after she was allegedly found in possession of drugs with around R700,000. Picture: Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD)

Published Apr 10, 2024

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A 39-year-old woman was arrested by the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department’s (JMPD) tactical response unit in connection with drug-related offences in the Brackendowns area of Alberton.

“On Saturday, April 6, during an intelligence-driven operation in Eldorado Park, officers received crucial information about an individual involved in drug distribution within the community,” said JMPD spokesperson, Superintendent Xolani Fihla.

A description of the vehicle used for transporting drugs was also provided to the police.

Following up on this lead, the JMPD officers traced the alleged drug dealer to a residence in Brackendowns, Alberton.

A Nigerian woman was arrested in Alberton after she was allegedly found in possession of drugs with around R700,000. Picture: Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD)

“On Sunday, April 7, while surveilling the residence, they observed a white Mercedes Benz matching the provided description leaving the premises. The officers promptly intercepted the vehicle, which was driven by the female suspect,” said Fihla.

A Nigerian woman was arrested in Alberton after she was allegedly found in possession of drugs with around R700,000. Picture: Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD)

“A thorough search revealed the presence of a narcotic known as Cat (methcathinone). When questioned about the illicit items, the suspect claimed that the vehicle belonged to her husband. A further search of the suspect's house was conducted, and more narcotics were recovered.”

The narcotics, with an estimated street value of approximately R700,000, were seized by the police.

A Nigerian woman was arrested in Alberton after she was allegedly found in possession of drugs with around R700,000. Picture: Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD)

Additionally, chemicals and equipment were found at the premises, indicating that the house could be a narcotics laboratory.

“Subsequently, the female suspect, identified as a Nigerian national, was taken into custody on charges of drug dealing and possession. She was detained at the Brackendowns police station station, where a case was opened for further investigation,” said Fihla.

A Nigerian woman was arrested in Alberton after she was allegedly found in possession of drugs with around R700,000. Picture: Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD)

Police investigations were ongoing, and Fihla said efforts were under way to apprehend the main suspect — the woman's husband who was still at large.

Spokesperson for the Joburg Metro Police Department, Superintendent Xolani Fihla. File Picture: JMPD

“The JMPD remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community by combating drug-related criminal activities. We urge residents to report any suspicious behaviour or information to the authorities,” said Fihla.

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