Duo busted with 600kg of dagga worth P1.2 million
Botswana Police experienced a massive high in the fight against drugs on Thursday, intercepting two big shipments of dagga at Tatisiding Road Block.
Acting on a tip-off, the boys in blue stopped two Honda Fits travelling in convey, finding several weed packages weighing 280kg and 320kg in total, with an estimated street value of P1.2 million.
The suspected drug mules, Botswana nationals, Thatayothe Loso, 42, and Pilato Dintwa, 36, were promptly arrested and taken to the cells – where they claim they were badly beaten.
Appearing before Francistown Magistrates Court on Monday, the duo were charged with a single count of trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances.
If found guilty, should the court see fit to throw the book at them, they face a possible 25 years in prison, a fine of up to P500, 000 or even both.
During their brief arraignment, their attorney, Kagiso Jani told court his clients were the victims of police brutality.
“He (Loso) said he was severely assaulted by the police. He mentioned names of the officers who beat him but I do not want to mention them here. We plead that they both be taken for medical examination,” said the lawyer.
In response, Prosecutor, Chashingwa Ndadi revealed the state was aware of these allegations, adding they have no problem with the suspects being taken to the hospital for assistance.
Although they showed no visible injuries, Loso looked in obvious discomfort and hobbled out of court, limping badly.
With the matter rearranged to Tuesday, the Investigating Officer (IO), Batlhalose Baliki took to the stand, revealing his officers were closing in on the main target, identified only as ‘Mzala’.
The Detective Constable added they have located the suspected drug lord’s home but were yet to find him.
“We plead that the accused persons be remanded in custody because if they are to be released on bail they might interfere with the investigations. We are also to collect the statements from the possible witnesses,” said Baliki.
Bail ruling was set for Thursday (16 October) with Loso and Dintwa remanded in custody until then.
Awaiting their police escort, the pair were none-too pleased to spot The Voice’s photographer waiting for them, hurling a torrent of abuse and threats her way.
It is rumoured they received the load from South African drug-dealers near Makwati village and were on their way to deliver the dagga when they were caught.
It was the second high-profile drugs bust in as many days, following hot on the heels of Wednesday’s arrest of four Zimbabweans (three men and a woman) at the Martins Drift border in possession of 100kg of suspected dagga.
