Suspected Phoenix drug dealer allegedly linked to drive-by shootings to remain behind bars

Suspected Phoenix drug dealer allegedly linked to drive-by shootings to remain behind bars! A 26-year-old suspected drug dealer, Rommel Chol Ramratham, made his first court appearance at the Verulam Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, following his dramatic arrest in Westham, Phoenix.

Police have accused Ramratham of being deeply involved in drug turf wars, drive-by shootings, and illegal arms dealings.

Authorities suspect that he may have had connections within law enforcement, as some of the firearms recovered were registered to the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Major Drug and Weapons Bust in Phoenix

Ramratham was apprehended at his home on Tuesday afternoon, following a joint operation by the Provincial Organised Crime Unit and the Provincial Drugs and Firearms Unit.

The raid led to the seizure of multiple firearms, drugs, ammunition, drug manufacturing equipment, and police-issued firearms.

According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Nethsuinda, the operation was initiated after intelligence suggested that Ramratham had multiple firearms in his vehicles.

“We had received information that the suspect was storing illegal firearms in different vehicles, and he was suspected of being involved in violent drug-related crimes in Phoenix,” Nethsuinda explained.

When officers moved in for the arrest, Ramratham attempted to flee, but was quickly subdued by law enforcement.

A thorough search of his residence and vehicles uncovered:

• Two shotguns inside his apartment
• Five firearms hidden inside each of his five vehicles
• Large quantities of drugs
• Drug manufacturing machines
• Police-issued firearms and ammunition

Links to Drug Turf Wars and Police Corruption

Authorities believe that Ramratham was an active player in Phoenix’s violent drug turf wars, which have been linked to numerous drive-by shootings and gang-related killings.

Police are also investigating whether he was collaborating with corrupt officers, as several of the firearms recovered were SAPS-issued weapons.

“The presence of police-issued firearms in his possession raises serious concerns,” said Nethsuinda. “We are investigating how these weapons ended up in the hands of a suspected criminal.”

Law enforcement sources suggest that Ramratham may have been paying off police officers to avoid arrest and continue his operations.

High-Security Armored Vehicle Under Investigation

One of the most shocking discoveries during the raid was Ramratham’s luxurious, fully armored SUV.

Police were still trying to gain access to the heavily fortified vehicle at the time of his arrest, believing it may contain more illegal contraband.

“A vehicle of this nature suggests that the suspect was prepared for violent encounters,” said an officer on the scene.

Investigators believe the SUV may have been used for drug transportation or as protection during gang shootouts.

Court Proceedings and Bail Denied

Ramratham appeared before the Verulam Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, facing multiple charges, including:

• Possession of drugs
• Illegal possession of firearms
• Possession of police-issued firearms
• Possible links to organized crime

Due to the serious nature of the charges, the court denied bail, ordering that Ramratham remain in custody until his next appearance on February 11, 2025.

Authorities are now working to build a stronger case against him, with possible additional charges expected in the coming weeks.

Ongoing Investigations and More Arrests Expected

Police have hinted that more arrests could be made as they continue to unravel the suspect’s connections.

“We urge anyone with information on similar activities to come forward,” Nethsuinda said.

The arrest of Ramratham marks a major breakthrough in law enforcement’s battle against organized crime in Phoenix, an area notorious for drug-related violence.

However, police stress that the fight is far from over and that they will continue cracking down on criminal networks operating in the region.

Conclusion

The arrest and prosecution of Rommel Chol Ramratham is a significant step in dismantling drug and firearm syndicates in Phoenix.

With allegations of turf wars, drive-by shootings, and police corruption, the case could have far-reaching implications for crime networks in KwaZulu-Natal.

As investigations continue, all eyes will be on the Verulam Magistrate’s Court when Ramratham returns for his next hearing on February 11, 2025.