The Regional Court in Ladysmith imposed an eight-year imprisonment coupled with a R25 000 fine on a drug peddler.
On Thursday, 02 October 2025 the dealer was found guilty on a charge of dealing in drugs earlier.
On 06 June 2024, Ladismith Crime Prevention Unit members conducted a vehicle checkpoint (VCP) along the R62 between Ladismith and Barrydale.
The members received information about a silver Toyota Etios which was enroute Cape Town with a consignment of drugs on board, destined for delivery at Ladismith.
This vehicle was noticed and pulled over. A search ensued leading to the discovery of drugs concealed inside the steering wheel compartment of the vehicle.
The members confiscated 95.26 gram tik and 500 mandrax tablets estimated with a street value of R58 000-00. Police also seized the vehicle and arrested five occupants.
One of the occupants, Royston Rayners (34), was found guilty on a charge of dealing drugs. He was sentenced to eight years imprisonment of which four years’ are suspended for five years with conditions. The accused was further sentenced to a fine of R25 000.00- or five-years’ imprisonment.
The matter was withdrawn against three other occupants whilst the fourth suspect passed on.
The vehicle used in the commission of the offence was forfeited to the State.
Western Cape Provincial Detectives responsible for narcotics investigated this matter.
Cece Smith 