Two Brazilian nationals, aged 30 and 35, were arrested at OR Tambo International Airport on Sunday in connection with drug trafficking activities after they arrived from São Paulo, Brazil. The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that the pair were apprehended shortly after landing, with one found in possession of over 4 kilograms of cocaine concealed in his luggage. The other trafficker was found to have swallowed 15 “drug bullets,” a method commonly used by traffickers to smuggle narcotics into countries. These arrests highlight the ongoing efforts by South African authorities to combat drug smuggling at one of the country’s busiest international airports.
The investigation into this drug trafficking case was swiftly conducted by SAPS, led by Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Van Wyk, who confirmed the arrests. “One of the traffickers was caught with more than 4kg of cocaine, while medical x-rays revealed that the second suspect had ingested cocaine-filled capsules,” Van Wyk said. The authorities have so far successfully retrieved 15 of these capsules, each containing a portion of the illicit drug. The two men are expected to face serious drug trafficking charges when they appear in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court later this week.
This arrest marks the second significant drug bust at OR Tambo International Airport in just a week, emphasizing the growing concerns about the scale of drug smuggling operations targeting South Africa. Earlier, on Friday, SAPS officers intercepted a shipment of crystal meth worth approximately R6 million. The meth was discovered hidden inside a pool table at a warehouse located within the airport. These two cases underscore the relentless efforts by the South African police to disrupt international drug trafficking networks and prevent the influx of harmful substances into the country.
SAPS National Police Commissioner, Fannie Masemola, praised the police for their timely intervention and vigilance, which led to the swift arrest of the suspects. He emphasized the importance of these operations in curbing the illegal drug trade, which poses serious risks to public health and safety. “The police’s quick response to these drug smuggling attempts demonstrates their commitment to safeguarding South African borders and preventing the spread of illegal drugs,” Masemola said in a statement.
Athlenda Mathe, SAPS spokesperson, highlighted that the police were actively following up on leads to trace the origins of the drugs and identify those responsible for supplying the traffickers. “We are working to determine where these drugs are coming from and who is behind the trafficking operations,” she said. Mathe also commended the ongoing vigilance at OR Tambo International Airport, where authorities regularly intercept large consignments of narcotics. This is part of a broader strategy by SAPS to stay ahead of international drug cartels attempting to exploit the country’s major transit points.
With the frequency of such busts increasing, SAPS is sending a clear message to drug traffickers worldwide: South Africa remains on high alert, particularly at critical points of entry such as OR Tambo International Airport. The success of these operations not only disrupts criminal networks but also serves as a deterrent, reinforcing the country’s commitment to fighting drug trafficking and preserving public safety. As the investigation into these recent cases continues, SAPS is determined to remain vigilant and take all necessary steps to curb the illicit trade of narcotics.
