An alleged drug dealer who allegedly attempted to bribe a member of the Hawks to drop charges related to a R1,5 million drug bust has been slapped with a charge of corruption.

Hawks North West province spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale said the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation team had swooped on the suspects during an intelligence driver operation in Klerksdorp on Friday. Mogale said police had arrested two suspects aged 26 and 33.

“It is reported that the team executed a disruptive operation on Charl de Klerk Street wherein upon searching a flat at Bushwillows two suspects, a female, 26, and a male foreign national, 33, were arrested. Further search of their residence revealed a plastic bag with two blocks of what was suspected to be CAT and smaller bags containing meth with an estimated street value of R1.5 million,” Mogale said.

Suspect flashes R10 000 at police officer in bribe attempt

“During the arrest, the foreign national asked to speak to one of the members. The suspect produced R10 000 and offered it to the officer to dissuade him from opening the docket. The officer declined and added a charge of corruption to that of possession of illegal drugs,” Mogale said.

Mogale said both suspects are expected to appear in the Klerksdorp Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 26 April to face  charges of dealing in drugs and possession of drugs. Mogale said the second suspect would also face the additional charge of corruption for attempting to bribe the police officer.

Provincial Head of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in the North West province, Major General Mbotho applauded the team, in particular the police officer who displayed absolute integrity.

“It is quite refreshing to see members displaying such integrity and behavior that is beyond reproach when suspects attempt to buy their honour,” Mbotho said.