The two accused, Chike Okafor Ewile (27), and Sunday Matthew Chike (30), were sentenced in the Kuruman Magistrate's Court on Thursday.

Ewile and Chike were part of a syndicate that was arrested during a sting operation conducted simultaneously in the Northern Cape and the Western Cape on March 23, 2018.

"The operation was in accordance with the Hawks’ resolve to stem the proliferation, selling and use of illegal drugs, which is steadily gaining momentum among the youth," Northern Cape Hawks spokesperson, Nomthandazo Mnisi said

"It became evident that the threat had evolved as one of the targets relocated and operated from the Western Cape."

Ewile was found guilty and sentenced to 23 years. He is to serve an effective 15 years direct imprisonment.

Chike was found guilty and sentenced to 20 years or R80,000 fine, and is to serve an effective 12 years direct imprisonment.

"This province will not allow communities to be exposed to the use of drugs and anyone who is found to be involved in this crime will be brought to justice," Major General Galawe said.

African News Agency