South African court denies bail to Nigerian national Michael Okoya, a 51-year-old man charged with drug dealing in Klerksdorp, North West Province. The decision was handed down by the Klerksdorp Magistrates Court, which found that the accused posed a serious flight risk.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), also known as the Hawks, the ruling was welcomed as a major step toward strengthening South Africa’s ongoing fight against drug trafficking.
Okoya was arrested in early September 2025 during a joint operation conducted by the Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Crime Intelligence, and the Tactical Response Team. The operation followed weeks of surveillance and intelligence work that led investigators to his residence in Klerksdorp.
During the search, authorities discovered a large quantity of illegal substances, including crystal meth, kat, and mandrax tablets. The total street value of the seized drugs was estimated to exceed R1.5 million. Investigators said the discovery confirmed suspicions of a well-structured supply chain operating within the area.
Okoya was not present during the initial raid, prompting a manhunt that lasted several days. He was eventually located and arrested after investigators received credible intelligence on his whereabouts.
During his bail hearing, the State, represented by Advocate Riekie Krause, opposed the application, presenting three detailed affidavits. One affidavit came from a senior SAPS officer who received reports about a planned escape attempt. The second was submitted by the investigating officer, while the third came from the officer who confiscated the accused’s cellphone. Evidence from the phone reportedly included discussions that suggested the accused was planning to flee the country if released.
After reviewing all submissions, the court concluded that releasing Okoya on bail would undermine the integrity of the investigation. The presiding magistrate ruled that the State had sufficient evidence to justify continued detention. The matter has been postponed to 9 December 2025 for further investigation and case development.
Dr. Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, and Brigadier Georgia Moos, Acting Head of the Hawks in the province, both commended the collaborative efforts of the NPA and the Hawks. They praised the dedication of the teams involved in dismantling organized drug operations in the region.
In a joint statement, they said, “The NPA, working closely with the DPCI and other law enforcement agencies, remains committed to breaking down drug networks and ensuring that those responsible for destroying communities through the sale and distribution of narcotics are brought to justice.”
This case marks one of the most significant drug enforcement operations in Klerksdorp this year, further emphasizing South Africa’s tough stance on narcotics-related crimes.
