Klerksdorp Record, Klerksdorp – The Nigerian suspected of running a drug ring in Klerksdorp will stand trial while being incarcerated.
Michael Okoya (51) was denied bail on Monday November 10 after evidence was heard that he is plotting an escape. He was charged with drug dealing in September following a search and seizure operation conducted by the Hawks, Crime Intelligence, and TRT at his flat in Klerksdorp.
Law enforcement officials confiscated a large quantity of drugs, including crystal meth, kat, and mandrax tablets, with an estimated street value exceeding R1.5 million.
Okoya was not present during the raid, prompting a manhunt. He was later apprehended after authorities followed up on credible intelligence.
During the bail proceedings, the State, represented by Adv Riekie Krause, opposed bail, submitting that Okoya posed a flight risk. The State presented three affidavits: one from a senior SAPS official who received information about a planned escape, another from the investigating officer, and one from the officer who confiscated a cellphone from the accused.
The court was informed that the accused had expressed intentions to abscond if released on bail.
After considering the evidence, the court denied bail, and the matter was postponed to December 9 for further investigation.
