Seven Nigerian national have been sentenced to a combined 105 years for drug dealing by the Benoni Magistate’s Court.
Valentine Chigbo Okoye (36), Patrick Chime Uche (38), Chucks Ugo Thomas (37), Emeka Azodo (40), Chinaemelum Uba (24), and Chucku Imeka Ekwemozok (34) were nabbed in October were arrested two years ago.
Commenting on the sentence on Monday, the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation – better known as the Hawks – said it “welcomed” the sentence meted out to the drug dealers, who were found guilty of the crimes on 12 October 2016.
Major General Prince Mokotedi said the seven Nigerian nationals were sentenced and convicted to 105 years imprisonment for dealing in drugs last week on Thursday.
Mokotedi recalled how the Hawks, acting on a tip-off, arrested the accused in October 2014 after they were found packaging heroine into small wrappings for distribution in Crystal Park, Benoni.
“The attempted on several occasion to apply for bail, however, they were unable as they were considered flight risks. The suspects were sentenced to an effective 15 years each without an option of any fine. The combined sentenced total (105) years all together,” said Mokotedi.
“This is indeed a welcomed precedent set by our courts and this will help our efforts to combat drug trafficking a great deal. We are proud of our team’s efforts in ensuring a successful prosecution in this matter.
“Such convictions will motivate our members to work even more harder. From now on, drug dealers will feel the full might of the law, we are more determined to fight this scourge.”
– African News Agency (ANA)
