Dublin man sent to Cork to sell crack cocaine to pay off 'ever-growing' drugs debt

Accused was involved in a number of drug transactions in Cork city centre with other known drug users, court told

Accused pleaded guilty to possession of drugs and having them for sale or supply.

A 24-year-old Dubliner who ran up a drugs debt was sent down to Cork with a stash of crack cocaine deals to go towards clearing what he owed.

Simpiwe Mokwena, of Isaac’s hotel, Dublin, has now appeared before Cork District Court charged with possession of drugs and having them for the purpose of sale or supply. He pleaded guilty to the charges.

Sergeant Aisling Murphy said Garda Iain King detected the offence taking place at Merchant's Quay, Cork, on October 11, 2024.

“As part of an ongoing investigation into the sale and supply of drugs in Cork city, plainclothes gardaí observed a man acting suspiciously.

“He was involved in a number of drug transactions in Cork city centre with other known drug users.

“He was stopped at Merchant's Quay and had crack cocaine in his possession.

“A total of 41 individual rocks of crack cocaine were located concealed in his clothing, valued at €1,025.

“When interviewed, he said he was homeless and unemployed and he was selling drugs to pay his ever-growing debt, which had risen to €1,800.” 

Dennis Healy solicitor said: “He ran up a drugs debt in Dublin. He was told to bring the drugs to Cork and give them to two people.” 

Judge Mary Dorgan said: “I would be inclined to look for a probation report. He had a lot of drugs. I am conscious he had no drug convictions.” 

Judge Dorgan adjourned sentencing until January 12 2026 to allow time for a probation report.