Authorities intercept R6 million worth of cocaine disguised as hair products at OR Tambo International Airport, with links to São Paulo, Brazil.
A joint operation between the SAPS and customs officials led to the seizure of R6 million worth of cocaine at OR Tambo International Airport on March 4. The shipment, disguised as hair products, was intercepted before it could continue its journey to France from its point of origin in São Paulo, Brazil.
Authorities Thwart Smuggling Attempt
Law enforcement officials confirmed that the drug consignment was discovered during routine cargo inspections. The neatly packaged boxes, labelled as hair products, raised suspicions, prompting further examination, which led to the discovery of large quantities of concealed cocaine.
Authorities have launched an in-depth investigation into the smuggling network responsible for the shipment. The successful interception highlights SAPS’s commitment to cracking down on international drug trafficking using South Africa as a transit hub.
Second Cocaine Bust at OR Tambo
In a separate incident on the same day, a 55-year-old Nigerian national was arrested for attempting to smuggle cocaine into South Africa. The suspect had ingested drug-filled “bullets”, which were later confirmed to contain cocaine after a medical examination.
Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement officials continue to investigate both cases and are working with international authorities to identify drug trafficking syndicates operating between South America, South Africa, and Europe.
SAPS has urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to drug smuggling and organized crime to assist in the fight against drug trafficking.
Also read: Pretoria Drug Bust: Police Seize 295 Bags of Heroin Hidden Above Geyser
