Brazilian National Arrested At OR Tambo Airport With Cocaine Worth R1.8 Million

A 25-year-old Brazilian national was arrested on Sunday at OR Tambo International Airport for alleged drug trafficking.

This arrest was the result of police acting on operational intelligence, highlighting continued efforts to combat drug smuggling at one of South Africa’s busiest airports.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Amanda van Wyk confirmed the details of the arrest. “The suspect had just arrived from São Paulo, Brazil.

The Brazilian was found with more than three kilograms of drugs, later identified as cocaine, wrapped around his body,” said Van Wyk. The seized narcotics are valued at an estimated R1.8 million.

A String of Arrests

This arrest adds to a growing list of drug trafficking cases intercepted at OR Tambo International Airport. In October and November alone, 14 alleged drug mules were apprehended. On average, law enforcement detained at least one suspect weekly in October, reflecting an intensified crackdown on smuggling operations.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Court Order Seizes Drug-Related Assets In Tamboerskloof, Cape Town

The ongoing operations at OR Tambo underscore South Africa’s commitment to clamping down on drug trafficking. The collaboration between intelligence units and airport security has proven effective in curbing the transport of illicit substances.

Further investigations into the arrested suspect’s connections and the broader smuggling network are underway.

---

For SA Crime News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram