Snl24 | PICS: Dead drug suspect arrested!

Katlehong station commander Brigadier Albertina Vesi, Ekurhuleni district deputy commissioner Brigadier Lebohang Machakela and Springs’ acting station commander Colonel Eric Mhlongo at Operation Shanela held in the area. Photo by Khaya Masipa

IN a dramatic turn of events, a Nigerian man who was trying to evade arrest died after swallowing drugs he had on his possession.  

This happened during an Operation Shanela in the Springs CBD, Ekurhuleni on Thursday morning, 25 April. 

The man was arrested but his condition rapidly deteriorated at the police station, leading to an urgent need for medical attention.

Motorists searched during Operation Shanela held in Springs.

Despite being provided water by the officers and rushed to the hospital, he tragically died upon arrival.

Ekurhuleni District police deputy commissioner Brigadier Lebohang Machakela confirmed that the man would be charged posthumously with drug possession.

Operation Shanela in Springs on Thursday. Photo by Khaya Masipa

ALSO READ: Dark side of Mzansi’s ARV crisis exposed

Further investigations are underway to identify the substance found in the man’s bloodstream.

Cops conduct a search during Operation Shanela in Springs. Photo by Khaya Masipa

“At the moment the amount of drugs swallowed by the suspect is unknown. The little to be found in him is still going to be quantified,” said Machakela.

He also highlighted that Operation Shanela was initiated in Springs due to the prevalence of crimes such as illegal mining and house robberies.

Cops during Operation Shanela in Springs. Photo by Khaya Masipa

More than 200 suspects wanted for various crimes have been apprehended as part of the operation.

“Operation Shanela in Springs is ongoing,” he said. 

For more news and entertainment in the palm of your hand, follow our WhatsApp Channel via this link.

Get the best in Soccer, News and Lifestyle content with SNL24 PLUS

For 14 free days, you can have access to the best from Soccer Laduma, KickOff, Daily Sun, TrueLove and Drum. Thereafter you will be billed R29 per month. You can cancel anytime and if you cancel within 14 days you won’t be billed.