PICS: Cocaine worth over R200 million seized at OR Tambo airport

Authorities intercepted 216 blocks of cocaine weighing approximately 250kg in five luggage bags at OR Tambo International Airport, according to SAPS.

A multidisciplinary law enforcement team has intercepted approximately 250kg of cocaine with an estimated street value of more than R200 million at OR Tambo International Airport.

SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the drugs were packed in 216 blocks across five luggage bags.

The interception involved members of the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs and Border Management Authority (BMA).

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola commended the team for its vigilance and professionalism, Mathe said.

The seizure comes amid sustained efforts by law enforcement agencies to clamp down on drug trafficking through the country’s busiest international airport.

National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola commended the team for its vigilance and professionalism, Mathe said.

“The significant seizure is a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts and the commitment of frontline officers to disrupting drug trafficking networks that seek to use South Africa’s ports of entry to move illicit substances,” Mathe said.

She said Masemola had emphasised that SAPS would continue working with its law enforcement partners to identify, intercept and dismantle drug trafficking operations.

The seizure comes amid sustained efforts by law enforcement agencies to clamp down on drug trafficking through the country’s busiest international airport.

Mathe said 116 drug mules had been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport over the past 24 months.

The latest seizure comes amid sustained efforts to combat drug trafficking through the airport.

Mathe said SAPS remained committed to working with SARS Customs, the BMA and other stakeholders to strengthen border security and disrupt organised criminal networks.