Raed Cupido, also known as the ‘cocaine banker’, has launched his third bail application ahead of his high-profile trial at the Cape Town Regional Court. Cupido was arrested in June 2025 after police found 15 bricks of cocaine worth an estimated R18 million, along with an AK-103 rifle, Uzi Pro rifle, five semi-automatic firearms, and 130 rounds of ammunition in a storage unit on Roeland Street.
He faces charges of being in possession of drugs and illegal firearms, while his co-accused Christopher Carelse, who was nabbed in July 2025, is alleged to be his accomplice, with the State claiming that they are so-called “first receivers” of drugs being smuggled into the Cape. The South African Police Service has been cracking down on drug trafficking and illegal firearms in recent years.
Bail Applications and Trial
Both accused were expected in court on Wednesday, but neither was brought to court. The suspects rented storage units side by side, Cupido in 869, and Carelse in 868. This marks Cupido’s third bail application, while Carelse, who has previously had a High Court bail appeal denied, is bringing another application.
During Cupido’s second bail application, he said his rights were violated and that the search of the unit was done without a search warrant, as the search of unit 868 was unlawful and therefore the State has no case, and he should be granted bail. The court heard that both accused had to be re-questioned, and that the bail applications on new facts were postponed to April 17, while the trial is expected to start on May 27.
Charges and Penalties
The charges against Cupido and Carelse are serious, and if convicted, they could face significant penalties. According to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, the possession of illegal drugs and firearms can result in lengthy prison sentences.
Here are some of the charges and potential penalties:
- Possession of cocaine: up to 15 years in prison
- Possession of illegal firearms: up to 10 years in prison
- Conspiracy to commit a crime: up to 10 years in prison
The trial is expected to be closely watched, and the outcome could have significant implications for the accused and the community.
