DURBAN, South Africa – The Hawks have seized approximately 90 kilograms of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of R36 million at Durban harbour.

The drugs were discovered hidden in two excavators that arrived from Santos, Brazil, aboard the vessel Neptune Ace Tokyo on Friday 6 June, according to a statement issued by the Hawks.

Members of Organised Crime Investigation’s Narcotics Enforcement Bureau were alerted by a customs official to suspected cocaine concealed within an excavator at the Q and R car terminal, the Hawks said.

A thorough inspection revealed suspicious packages concealed within a panel leading to the engine compartment. The examination resulted in the seizure of 47 blocks containing a powdered substance suspected to be cocaine, according to the statement.

While the first scene was being processed, customs officials reported the discovery of a second concealment on another excavator that had already been offloaded from the vessel. A subsequent inspection led to the seizure of an additional 43 blocks of suspected cocaine.

Based on an estimated value of R400 000 per kilogram, the drugs have an approximate street value of R36 million, the Hawks said.

Investigation continues

No arrests have been made at this stage, and the matter remains under investigation, according to the statement. The seized exhibits will be transported to a forensic science laboratory for chemical analysis.

The acting provincial head of the Hawks, Brigadier Zenobia Mulligan, applauded the multi-disciplinary team for their alertness and dedication.

“The DPCI (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation) remains committed to disrupting transnational drug trafficking networks and safeguarding South Africa’s ports of entry from organised criminal activities,” she said.

“The DPCI will continue executing their mandate without fear or favour.”

The operation involved officials from the Hawks, the Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit, customs, the Durban vehicle processing organisation, and the local criminal record centre.