Law enforcement officers patrolling in the Town Centre in Mitchells Plain caught an alleged heroin addict and dealer with a fat stash early Wednesday morning, while he was apparently waiting for clients to arrive.
The 22-year-old man was arrested for dealing and possession of drugs and instead of pleading his innocence, asked the officers for help to kick his drug habit.
The suspect is being held in the cells at Mitchells Plain police station while he awaits his first court appearance and has already gone cold turkey, according to a source.
The 22-year-old told cops he celebrated his birthday on Heritage Day, and is originally from Hanover Park.
He begged for help and Strandfontein CPF chairperson Sandy Schuter says they felt sorry for him and offered their
assistance.
CONFISCATED: Heroin
She says the suspect completed matric where he “did really well”.
Schuter says she asked Ceasefire co-ordinator Pastor Craven Engel from Hanover Park for
assistance.
He runs the Restoration Camp in Strandfontein, which is a drug
rehabilitation facility.
“Anyone who shows they want to change, deserves a second chance,” says Schuter.
“He will be going into rehab and hopefully detox and be taught a skill and work.
“He will learn a trade and be able to support himself and remain off the streets.
“Most of the time when families act against druggies, they chuck them out, but they need help, if they are willing to change and show potential.
“This is all part of what we as community
workers do.”