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In the Northern Cape, a 29-year-old hitchhiker has been arrested for alleged drug dealing after he was unknowingly picked up by an organised crime officer.

The suspect was found today with 60 mandrax tablets that hold a street value of about R6,000, and marijuana valued at over R5,000.

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The Hawks said that a warrant officer had been travelling from Kimberley towards Upington when he stopped by the roadside to make a phone call.

He was approached by the suspect who requested a lift and offered payment.

The officer, who was said to have smelled the marijuana, allowed the passenger into his vehicle and proceeded directly to the local police station.

“During the journey, the suspect fell asleep, and the officer proceeded directly to Upington Police Station in order to have proper assistance in conducting a search. The search revealed Mandrax, dagga, and other items in his possession. The suspect was immediately placed under arrest for possession of drugs.”

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