GAUTENG – The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation in Gauteng welcomed the hefty sentence handed down to a drug dealer in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court for dealing in drugs on Monday, 14 March 2022.

In October 2016, authorities at the OR Tambo International Airport intercepted a suspicious traveller who landed on a flight from Sao Paulo in Brazil. Upon searching the traveller’s luggage, 3.6 kilograms of suspected cocaine wrapped in small plastic bags concealed in pencil cases were found.

The accused, Abuohi Kenneth Ukonu (41) was immediately apprehended and charged. During Ukonu’s first court appearance, the investigation team successfully opposed Ukonu’s bail application. Ukonu was remanded in custody whilst awaiting trial. The court has sentenced Ukonu to seven years direct imprisonment for illegal drug dealing in contravention of the Drug Trafficking Act.

The Acting Provincial Head, Brigadier Wendy Mashwabane applauded authorities for the efforts and commitment displayed during both the investigation and prosecution. “Unity between stakeholders become very impactful for these type of outcomes. Entities need to work together in fighting the scourge of illicit drug dealing in the communities as well as removing perpetrators from the streets”.

Source: South African Police Service