MIDDELBURG – Leslie Richard (60), a former SANDF member reappeared before the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court on 17 April for a formal bail application.

Richard was arrested by the Gqeberha Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation in joint efforts with law enforcement agencies on 9 April in Middelburg on charges of dealing in drugs.

As previously reported, the investigation was formally launched in August 2025 following ongoing community reports and frequent complaints about widespread drug dealing in the area.

A search at Richard’s home resulted in the discovery and confiscation of 16 small pockets of crystal methamphetamine, approximately 50 grams of Tik with an estimated street value of R8,100, 100 Mandrax tablets with an estimated street value of R8,000, a scale, pockets of cannabis, as well as an undisclosed sum of cash, inclusive of officially entrapped funds.

According to Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Ndiphiwe Mhlakuvana, the case has elicited heightened public interest and civic engagement.

“Members of the Middelburg community convened outside the court precinct to stage a peaceful picket, expressing unequivocal support for the Hawks and allied law enforcement agencies,” said Mhlakuvana.

He further said that the matter was postponed to 4 May for bail judgment.

He is remanded in custody.

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