Two suspected drug mules were arrested at OR Tambo International Airport, leading to the seizure of cocaine valued at over R1 million.
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The South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested two suspected drug mules at OR Tambo International Airport.
The police said that the arrest brings the total number of similar arrests at the airport to five since January 2025.
“A 24-year-old Brazilian man and a 51-year-old South African woman, who had travelled on the same flight from São Paulo, Brazil, were intercepted by police upon their arrival on Thursday,” SAPS said in a statement.
The police said that their arrest led to the seizure of cocaine valued at over R1 million.
“A medical examination confirmed that both suspects had ingested bullets suspected to contain cocaine. The process of releasing these substances is ongoing, and the final quantity and value of the seized drugs will be determined upon completion,” the police added.
SAPS said that in addition, authorities discovered and confiscated more cocaine concealed inside the suspects' luggage. Further investigations are underway to establish any potential links between the two individuals.
Yesterday, police also intercepted a shipment of white powder, suspected to be heroin, worth over R200 000.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the shipment was destined for London, United Kingdom”.
Last week, police also arrested a 33-year-old woman with cocaine at Cape Town International Airport. The woman was later hospitalised and her court case was postponed.
The woman, who had allegedly swallowed a number of drug pellets, remains under medical care as efforts are made to safely remove the drugs from her system.
The arrest took place on March 16, 2025, following a successful multi-disciplinary, intelligence-led operation.
The operation, involving the Hawks' South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB), Border Police, Customs at Cape Town International Airport, Home Affairs, and Plattekloof Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), was prompted by information received about a suspect travelling from Brazil to Cape Town.
Upon her arrival, the woman was swiftly identified, and a search revealed cocaine hidden inside her sports bag.
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