A 25-year-old Brazilian national has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport in connection with a large-scale drug trafficking operation. The suspect, who arrived on a flight from São Paulo, was found in possession of over three kilograms of cocaine, valued at an estimated R1.8 million. The drugs were carefully concealed around his body, prompting suspicion during routine checks.
The arrest is the latest in a series of successful drug busts at the airport, with the South African Police Service (SAPS) apprehending at least 14 individuals involved in cocaine smuggling over the past two months. The police have reported a concerning trend, with one drug mule being arrested every week at OR Tambo, highlighting the growing problem of drug trafficking through the airport.
In one notable case, a 21-year-old South African woman was arrested for her involvement in the trafficking operation, bringing the total number of arrests for cocaine smuggling at the airport to 15 in recent weeks. The suspects are typically charged under the Drugs and Drug Trafficking Act, and authorities are committed to curbing the illegal movement of narcotics through the country’s major transport hubs.
The Brazilian national, currently in police custody, is expected to appear in court soon to face charges related to drug trafficking. SAPS officials have emphasized that these arrests are part of a broader effort to combat transnational drug networks operating through South Africa’s airports.
