Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Peter Matika, [email protected]
A Bulawayo socialite has appeared in court on charges of illegal drug possession.
Gary Bale was arrested last Saturday after allegedly being found with a significant quantity of cocaine.
He vehemently denies any wrongdoing and insists that the drugs were planted on him during what he described as an unlawful arrest.
His lawyer, Mr Shepherd Chamunorwa from Calderwood, Bryce Hendrie and Partners, told the court that Bale’s arrest lacked proper legal procedure.
Bale has since been remanded in custody and his bail application will be heard today.
Through his lawyer Mr Chamunorwa, Bale claims the drugs were planted on him.
“Without consent or a search warrant police officers purported to search and recover drugs he has no knowledge of.
“He did not direct the police to his house as they already knew. They then drove to his parent’s home and searched,” said Mr Chamunorwa.
He said police forcibly made him sign a document while in a drunken stupor and has no memory or knowledge of the contents.
Mr Chamunorwa said according to the Constitution, the police were supposed to produce a search warrant.
The State, which is being represented by Miss Brenda Nyoni is opposed to bail citing that the police acted well by arresting Bale and his detention was lawful.
The case is being presided over by Bulawayo magistrate, Mr Maxwell Ncube.
Online Reporter