Bail hearing of drug dealers in Groblersdal postponed 

The bail hearing for five accused individuals linked to the R2 billion drug trafficking operation was postponed in the Groblersdal Magistrates’ Court, Limpopo.

The five accused face various serious charges. They are Gonzalez Jorge Partida (53), Gutierrez Lopez Alejandro (43), Roelof Botha (57), Khumalo Melvin (34), and Rodriguez Ruban Vidan (44). 

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The charges against them include manufacturing and dealing drugs, contravening the Illegal Immigration Act, and money laundering. While Botha and Khumalo are applying for bail, the other three Mexican nationals, Partida, Alejandro, and Vidan—have abandoned their bail applications.

The arrests were made on 19 July at a farm owned by accused Botha in Loskop South Thaba e Monate. During a police search, drugs with an estimated street value of R2 billion were confiscated. The Hawks, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, acted on intelligence regarding illegal activities at the farm. Uncovering vast quantities of chemicals used for drug manufacturing along with a large clandestine laboratory. Police seized 408.95 kg of acetone and methamphetamine (crystal meth).

GROBLERSDAL MAGISTRATE’S COURT POSTPONED THE BAIL HEARING OF THE DRUG BUST ACCUSED 

In yesterday’s proceedings, Botha claimed the accused were renting his farm but failed to produce a lease agreement with the Mexican nationals. Khumalo stated in his affidavit that he was merely performing his duties as a transporter. He claimed that he had been hired to deliver food and acetone. However, the investigating officer testified against granting bail, citing public outcry and the severe nature of the crimes.

The matter has been postponed to 6 August 2024 for closing arguments. The accused will remain in custody until then.