Augustine Chinedu Onah, 42, was arrested by Klerksdorp-based Serious Organised Crime Investigation on Friday (25/9). The Hawks allege Onah contacted members and offered R10,000 as gratification in exchange for the withdrawal and closure of the drug possession case against him.

North West Hawks spokesperson WO Nkosinathi Ndlovu said an undercover operation was conducted, during which the accused allegedly met with Hawks members and offered R3,000. He allegedly indicated he would pay the balance later.

The R3,000 was recovered during the undercover operation and allegedly formed part of the R10,000 that Onah had offered to pay. The original drug possession case dates back to 2021, with Onah making several court appearances before it was eventually withdrawn.

“It was the accused who wanted to meet with one of the investigating officers and talk about the original drug possession case,” Ndlovu said. “He was worried that the case might come back, so he wanted one of our investigating officers to ensure that the case disappeared.”

The original case was for drug possession based on the amount found in the accused’s possession. The accused’s alleged attempt to bribe police prompted investigators to look further into whether he could be involved in drug dealing.

“The original drug possession case was withdrawn from court,” said Ndlovu, “but if a person repeatedly appears in court for similar offences, it can have an impact on the sentence they receive.”

Only the accused and Hawks members were involved in the alleged bribery attempt. The ongoing investigation could establish whether there were other people working with the accused. The accused remains in custody, with his formal bail application set for 5 October.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa sm

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