FREE STATE — A Sasolburg correctional officer arrested on drug-related charges is facing serious legal consequences after authorities uncovered a substantial narcotics operation within the local prison. The 52-year-old male warder was taken into custody by the South African Police Service (SAPS) following a targeted complaint at the detention facility.
According to police spokesperson Sergeant Josephine Rani, law enforcement was alerted to the illicit activity at approximately 14:00 on Saturday, 8 August 2026. Officers received a tip-off indicating that a prison staff member was not only in possession of dagga but was also actively suspected of dealing the substance inside the Sasolburg Correctional Centre.
Upon arriving at the facility, police were quickly directed to an African male who was fully dressed in his official Correctional Services uniform. Sergeant Josephine Rani confirmed that the suspect was discovered allegedly dealing the narcotics directly on the prison premises.
During the ensuing bust, authorities seized a significant haul of contraband. Police confiscated 803 ziplock bags of dagga, which carry an estimated street value of R8,050.
The 52-year-old suspect has been formally taken into custody and is expected to appear before the Sasolburg Magistrate’s Court soon. He will face multiple criminal counts, specifically charges of possession of dagga and dealing in dagga, as the investigation into internal prison security breaches continues.
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