Johannesburg – South African authorities have seized approximately 250kg of cocaine worth more than R200 million at OR Tambo International Airport, in a major drug bust involving five luggage bags containing 216 blocks of the illicit substance.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the seizure was carried out by a multidisciplinary team comprising police, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs and the Border Management Authority (BMA).
“The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has commended a multidisciplinary team comprising the SAPS, SARS Customs and the BMA for intercepting five luggage bags containing 216 blocks of cocaine weighing approximately 250 kilograms, with an estimated street value of more than R200 million at OR Tambo International Airport,” the police said in a statement.
The seizure highlights efforts by South African law enforcement agencies to curb drug trafficking through the country’s busiest international airport, which authorities say continues to be targeted by criminal networks transporting illicit substances.
SAPS said Masemola praised the officers involved for their vigilance and professionalism, highlighting the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in tackling organised crime.
“The significant seizure is a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts and the commitment of frontline officers to disrupting drug trafficking networks that seek to use South Africa’s ports of entry to move illicit substances,” the statement said.
The police said the operation forms part of sustained efforts to detect and prevent the movement of drugs across South Africa’s borders.
“Over the past 24 months, a total of 116 drug mules have been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport,” SAPS said.
The arrests underscore the continued focus on identifying individuals involved in transporting drugs through the airport and disrupting the networks behind such operations.
Masemola has reiterated the police service’s commitment to working with SARS Customs, the BMA and other stakeholders to strengthen border security and dismantle organised criminal networks.
The SAPS said it would continue working with its partners to ensure that those involved in the illicit drug trade are brought to justice.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
