33- Year-Old Female Cocaine Smuggler Arrested At Cape Town International Airport

A 33-year-old woman  have been arrested at the Cape Town International Airport, for trafficking drugs.

The arrest was successful following an intelligence-driven operation led by the Hawks on 16 March 2025.

The operation, which involved the Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB), Border Police, Customs, Home Affairs, and Plattekloof Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), was a coordinated effort to combat drug trafficking.

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Information received by SANEB members indicated that a suspect, arriving from Brazil, was involved in smuggling narcotics.

Following intelligence gathered, the multi-disciplinary team followed up and identified the woman.

Cocaine Hidden In Sports Bag And Swallowed Pellets

During the search, authorities discovered a significant quantity of cocaine concealed inside a sports bag.

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However, further investigation revealed that the suspect had also ingested drug pellets, a common method used to smuggle narcotics.

As a precautionary measure, she was immediately taken to a hospital to undergo treatment to remove the swallowed drugs.

The coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies ensured that a large drug trafficking operation was thwarted, preventing the illegal substances from reaching the streets.

Court Case

The 33-year-old woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, is expected to make her first appearance before the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on 18 March 2025.

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She is set to face serious charges of drug trafficking and smuggling.

The Hawks’ Major General Makgato commended the team’s vigilance and collaboration, he stated the importance of  continued fight against drug smuggling networks operating at key airports.