OR Tambo Drug Bust: 52-Year-Old Arrested With Heroin Worth Over R2 Million

A 52-year-old South African national has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport after police allegedly discovered heroin worth more than R2 million hidden in his luggage.

The suspect had just arrived on a flight from Accra, Ghana, when he was intercepted during an intelligence-led operation on Sunday, 20 September 2026.

The arrest, carried out by the South African Police Service (SAPS) with support from the Border Management Authority (BMA), brings the number of suspected drug mules arrested at the airport to three in just three weeks.

OR Tambo Drug Bust Uncovers Suspected Heroin

Police searched the suspect’s luggage after intercepting him at the airport.

During the search, officers allegedly discovered several bullet-like objects and blocks containing substances suspected to be heroin.

The drugs have an estimated street value of more than R2 million, according to police.

The latest seizure forms part of ongoing intelligence-led operations aimed at disrupting drug trafficking through one of South Africa’s busiest international entry points.

52-Year-Old Arrives From Ghana Before Arrest

The suspect was intercepted shortly after arriving in South Africa from Accra.

SAPS and the BMA worked together during the operation, with officers targeting suspected drug trafficking activity at OR Tambo International Airport.

The arrest comes less than three weeks after two other suspected drug mules were arrested at the airport, taking the total number of arrests in the period to three.

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Investigations are continuing as police work to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged trafficking operation and whether other individuals are involved.

Suspected Drug Mule To Face Court

The 52-year-old is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court later this week.

He is expected to face drug trafficking-related charges following the seizure, while investigators continue examining the evidence recovered from his luggage.

Authorities have not indicated whether the suspect has entered a plea, and the allegations against him will be tested through the court process.