KEETMANSHOOP - Two Tanzanian nationals, Japhari Rashiri (22) and Juma Juma (21), appeared in the Keetmanshoop Magistrate’s Court last week on two charges of dealing in dependence-producing drugs.

The state alleges that the accused, on or around 16 November 2023, wrongfully and unlawfully dealt in prohibited dependence-producing drugs/plants from which such drugs can be manufactured, weighing 22kg and with an estimated value of N$1.1 million.

Whilst appearing before magistrate Mulonda Masuku, accused one Rashiri indicated that he will conduct his own defence, and Juma said he will apply for legal assistance. 

Masuku, with the agreement of the state, then postponed the matter until 8 December 2023.

Police sources indicated that the accused were nabbed in possession of the drugs while travelling as hitchhikers on a heavy transport truck, approximately 51 km outside Grὔnau, enroute to Keetmanshoop.

This was the result of a successful police intelligence-led operation. 

They were remanded in custody. 

- sklukowski@nepc.com.na

Caption: Caught red-handed… Some of the drugs were allegedly found in the possession of the accused.

Photo: Contributed