Police thank public for tip-off that helped catch Perth dealer

Detectives have thanked the public for helping to catch a Perth drug dealer who was supplying cannabis to schoolchildren.

Police raided the home of Hussan Muwanga after receiving a tip-off that he was trading illicit substances from his city centre flat.

And while they were searching the property, officers were interrupted by a 15-year-old boy who was looking to buy some cannabis.

This week, 28-year-old Muwanga was jailed for 180 days. Sheriff Fiona Tait told him there was no realistic alternative to a custodial sentence.

Perth-based police sergeant David Rice yesterday thanked members of the public for their support.

He said the force was told that Muwanga was selling to children.

“This particular information was quickly acted upon due to the sensitive nature involving possible drugs being supplied to secondary school pupils.

“Following this information, I am delighted that the operation was successful and has led to this conviction.”

He added: “From the Your View Counts online survey, the public has told us that drug-related crime is a priority and we are focused on disrupting criminality and reducing harm in Tayside.

“I would ask if anyone has information in relation to the supply of drugs to please contact ourselves and we can quickly act upon the information we receive.”

Perth Sheriff Court heard that officers found nearly 30 grammes of cannabis at Muwanga’s Scott Street home.

They were concerned that the stash had been split into 20 so-called snap bags with a total street value of around £300.

Police also recovered about £535 in cash. The money was later seized by the court.

Sheriff Tait was told that Muwanga, who recently moved to Viewlands Place in Perth, had been using cannabis to treat muscle spasms.