KWAZULU-NATAL: The Hawks members from Richards Bay Serious Organized Crime Investigation in collaboration with the King Cetshwayo District Task Team and Border Security arrested a 42-year-old suspect for possession of drugs last Friday, 23 May 2025.
Drug tip off leads to arrest
The arrest followed intelligence received from Crime Intelligence about suspects alleged to be involved in drug dealing in the Gingindlovu and Mthunzini areas. Acting on this information, the police secured a search and seizure warrant from Mthunzini Magistrate’s Court.
New stock of drug for distribution
A Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Sibu Ncane, said the team received further intelligence that the suspect received a new stock of drugs and was planning to distribute them in the Esikhawini Township. The team promptly launched a disruptive operation and descended on the location, where they found the suspect in possession of capsules believed to be heroin.
Outcome of successful operation
The suspect was arrested and charged with possession of drugs with an estimated street value of R20 000. The suspect is expected to appear before Mthunzini Magistrate’s Court, today, 26 May 2025. The KwaZulu-Natal Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation Provincial Head, Major General (Dr), Lesetja Senona, extolled the members for the good work.
10 Facts About Heroin
- Heroin is an opioid drug: It is derived from morphine, which is a natural substance extracted from the seed pod of the opium poppy plant.
- It was originally marketed as medicine in the late 1800s and early 1900s, heroin was sold legally by pharmaceutical companies as a cough suppressant and pain reliever.
- Heroin is highly addictive and can create a powerful sense of euphoria, which leads to rapid psychological and physical dependence.
- It can be injected, snorted, or smoked: Each method of use carries serious health risks, including infection, collapsed veins, and respiratory issues.
- Heroin often contains dangerous additives: It is commonly mixed (“cut”) with substances like sugar, starch, or even fentanyl — a synthetic opioid far stronger than heroin, increasing the risk of overdose.
- Overdose can be fatal, this drug depresses breathing and heart rate, which can lead to death, especially when combined with alcohol or other drugs.
- Naloxone can reverse heroin overdose: It is a life-saving medication that can block the effects of opioids and restore normal breathing if given quickly.
- The use of this drug affects the brain long-term, chronic use changes the brain’s structure, impairing decision-making, behavior regulation, and stress response.
- Withdrawal is intense and painful when someone stop using this drug. Symptoms include nausea, muscle pain, insomnia, anxiety, and intense cravings — often making it hard to quit without medical help.
- Recovery is possible: With medical treatment, therapy, and support, many people overcome heroin addiction and rebuild their lives.
What is a Search and Seizure Warrant?
In South Africa, a search and seizure warrant is a legal document issued by a magistrate or judge that authorizes the police or other law enforcement officials to:
Enter a specific premises
Search for specific items or evidence
Seize such items if they are found during the search
Purpose
The warrant is usually issued in the course of a criminal investigation and is meant to assist authorities in gathering evidence related to a suspected crime.
What is the legal basis behind a Search and Seizure Warrant?
Search and seizure in South Africa is primarily governed by:
Section 21–25 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977
Section 14 of the Constitution of South Africa, which guarantees the right to privacy — including the right not to have your home or possessions searched without lawful reason.
What are the requirements for a Valid Warrant of Arrest in South Africa?
A search and seizure warrant must:
Be issued by a judicial officer (usually a magistrate or judge).
Identify the premises to be searched.
Specify the items being searched for (e.g., weapons, documents, computers).
Be based on sworn information (an affidavit) showing reasonable grounds to believe a crime has been committed and that evidence may be found at the specified location.
What are the exceptions? (When No Warrant Is Needed)
There are certain circumstances where a search and seizure can be conducted without a warrant, such as:
With the consent of the person in control of the premises.
If the police reasonably believe that a delay in obtaining a warrant would defeat the object of the search (e.g., evidence might be destroyed).
During an arrest, where officers may search the person and immediate surroundings.
What are the rights of individuals in South Africa regarding Search and Seizure Warrants?
If you’re the subject of a search:
You have the right to see the warrant.
The warrant must be executed reasonably and during reasonable hours, unless urgency justifies otherwise.
You may challenge the validity of the warrant or the conduct of the search in court if your rights are violated.
Read news about a successful crime operation last week!
Read the history of heroin here.
