A Burundian national, Jean Pacifique Irakoze (31), has been sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment by the Postmasburg Magistrate Court for dealing in and trafficking drugs. The sentencing took place on Monday, 15 September 2025.
According to Northern Cape Hawks Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Tebogo Thebe, the accused came under investigation after police received information from a reliable source regarding drug activities in the Postmasburg policing area. The Hawks Serious Organised Crime Investigation team, based in Kathu, opened a formal enquiry.
In February 2024, police conducted a legal search and seizure at the suspect’s property, recovering multiple plastic bags containing suspected crystal methamphetamine (tik). Irakoze was arrested immediately following the operation.
Lieutenant Colonel Thebe emphasized that the conviction serves as a warning to those involved in drug-related crimes, underscoring the Hawks’ commitment to combating the illicit drug trade in the Northern Cape.