Five Arrested After Drugs Found Hidden In Sneakers And Underwear At OR Tambo

Gauteng police have arrested five South African suspects at OR Tambo International Airport after allegedly uncovering drugs valued at more than R5 million concealed on their bodies.

The suspects were apprehended on Saturday, 28 March 2026, at the country’s busiest airport. Authorities confirmed the arrests were part of a coordinated operation involving the South African Police Service and Airports Company of South Africa.

Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk said initial findings suggest the group was travelling internationally.

“A preliminary report suggests that the suspects were en route to China via Dubai. A search led to the discovery of drugs concealed inside their sneakers, underwear, and private parts,” she said.

Arrested Suspects to Appear in Court as Investigations Continue

The five accused are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, where they will face charges linked to drug trafficking.

Van Wyk confirmed that investigations are ongoing as authorities work to determine the full extent of the operation.

The arrests come amid a series of recent drug seizures at OR Tambo International Airport earlier this month.

Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said crystal meth worth R2.2 million was discovered at a cargo warehouse on 4 March during routine operations. “The meth was destined for the Philippines from South Africa,” she said.

In a separate incident, eight large boxes containing dagga valued at R672 000 were found at another cargo facility a day later.

“The dagga was shipped from Morocco and was destined for South Africa,” Mathe added.

Debate Grows Over SA as Drug Transit Hub

Authorities have since seized the drugs, with investigations underway to identify those behind the trafficking operations.

However, Cannaflex, the company linked to the cannabis shipment, maintains the consignment was legal. It stated that the 150kg of medical cannabis flower powder (Beldia variety) was intended for research and pharmaceutical processing.

The recent surge in drug-related arrests at OR Tambo has renewed concerns about South Africa’s position as a transit point for international drug syndicates.