Drug trafficker Ejiofor detained in SA, others granted bail
In a dramatic turn of events, the Lichtenburg Magistrate’s Court in South Africa has remanded a Nigerian man, Theophilus Ejiofor, in custody while granting bail to his South African co-accused, Kgomotso Pholoholo, despite explosive allegations of drug trafficking and corruption.
Ejiofor, 48, was apprehended on December 18 in an undercover sting operation spearheaded by the Hawks, South Africa’s elite crime-fighting unit. The operation, conducted alongside the North West provincial drug task team and the Lichtenburg K9 unit, uncovered drugs worth R40,000 during the bust, including mandrax tablets, crystal meth, and CAT.
Further investigation led authorities to Ejiofor’s residence, where additional narcotics valued at R21,000 were seized. Lieutenant Colonel Tinyiko Mathebula, Hawks spokesperson, revealed, “A search at the Nigerian man’s house uncovered crystal meth worth R15,000 and CAT drugs valued at R6,000.”
Despite the gravity of the allegations, Pholoholo, 33, was released on bail of R1,000, sparking widespread debate. Adding to the intrigue, 28-year-old Violet Magqoki, identified as Ejiofor’s girlfriend, was later arrested and charged with corruption for allegedly attempting to bribe police officers to secure Ejiofor’s release. She, too, was granted bail of R1,000.
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The scandal has reignited discussions about judicial inconsistencies and corruption in handling high-profile drug cases. Many are questioning why Ejiofor remains in custody while his co-accused, both South Africans, were allowed to walk free.
“This case exposes the double standards in our justice system,” a local activist, who wished to remain anonymous, commented. “Drug trafficking is a transnational crime, and all suspects should be treated equally.”
The court has adjourned the case to January 6, 2025, leaving a nation and its neighbours eagerly awaiting further developments. For now, the Nigerian suspect remains behind bars, casting a spotlight on the intricate web of crime, corruption, and justice in South Africa.
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