Alleged UK drug mule abandons bail attempt
A 70-year-old alleged drug mule abandoned his bail application in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court this week.
UK citizen, Matthew Hamilton Swire, appeared in court on Monday, said Hawks spokesperson, Siyabulela Vukubi.
The matter was postponed to August 1.
Swire was arrested at the Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) after being found in possession of 4.1kg of tik.
“The Hawks' South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau team based in Bellville in conjunction with Border Police based at the Cape Town International Airport had on June 6 arrested a 70 year old suspect on charges of dealing in drugs.
“The Hawks received information regarding a foreign national that is an alleged drug mule leaving South Africa. Information was immediately operationalized. (The) suspect was spotted and upon searching his luggage, packets of crystal methamphetamine (tik) was found in a hidden compartment,” said Vukubi.
The Hawks team seized tik worth an estimated street value of R600 000.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) lauded the arrest.
ACSA regional general manager, Mark Maclean, said: “ACSA would like to congratulate the law enforcement agencies involved in this operation and thank them for their ongoing work and dedication to stamping out the smuggling of illicit drugs across our borders.
"We have a zero-tolerance approach to any criminal activity across our airport network in South Africa. This unwavering stance is integral to our mission of maintaining the highest safety and security standards. Our commitment involves rigorous security measures, continuous monitoring, and close collaboration with law enforcement agencies to prevent and address any threats. By prioritising safety and security, we aim to provide a secure and trustworthy environment for everyone who passes through our airports…The arrest of this drug mule serves as a warning to potential offenders that they will be apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Maclean.