A tip-off has led to the arrest of an almost 80-year-old oupa for possession of dagga.
The elderly suspect is expected to appear in the Bishop Lavis Magistrates’ Court today.
Bonteheuwel Ward councillor Angus McKenzie shared information of the arrest of the man in his late 70s on social media.
“After receiving a tip-off today over an oupa dealing in drugs in Ironwood Street, Bonteheuwel, we quickly deployed our teams to follow up.
“Law Enforcement officers were shocked to come across an almost 80-year-old oupa who has been running a lucrative business supplying and selling drugs.”
He says the alleged drug mert’s bust is part of efforts to make Bonteheuwel safe for the people.
“Friday’s arrest is once again a clear indication of the relationship that exists between councillor, community and Law Enforcement in our combined attempts to make Bonteheuwel a safer place for its residents,” he says.
But not everyone was happy about the arrest and people slammed McKenzie and cops for wasting resources on “a harmless weed dealer while the real criminals get away”.
Facebook user Greg Neil Bousfield said: “What a waste of time and resources on destroying an old man's life. Well done. You guys should be really proud of yourselves. The only thing dangerous about weed is the discriminatory laws against it.”
In another post, McKenzie replied: “I don't care how old you are, if you sell drugs, be it dagga, mandrax whatever, you are destroying your own community and youth.
“Anyone that doesn't agree with me is welcome to press the block button and if you are really interested in helping us build a better community, feel free to private message where the drug dens are. Your age is irrelevant, when you break down Bonteheuwel.”
Police spokesperson André Traut explains the man was arrested on charges of illegal possession and dealing in drugs.
“He was arrested after an intelligence-driven operation in Ironwood Street in Bonteheuwel.
“The suspect will make a court appearance in the Bishop Lavis Magistrates’ Court on Monday where he will have to answer on a charge of illegal possession and dealing in drugs.”