South Africa continues to make headlines for multi-million rand drug seizures, raising alarm over the country’s growing role in international drug trafficking networks and the scale of organised crime operations.
In the latest major bust, a multidisciplinary team has intercepted cocaine worth more than R200 million at OR Tambo International Airport in what officials describe as a significant blow to drug trafficking networks.
The South African Police Service (SAPS), working alongside the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs and the Border Management Authority (BMA), seized five luggage bags containing 216 blocks of cocaine weighing approximately 250 kg on Saturday, 25 October.
Coordinated law enforcement effort
National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, praised the team for its vigilance and professionalism in intercepting the drugs at the country’s busiest international airport.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said the 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.
General Masemola said the SAPS will continue to work closely with its law enforcement partners to identify, intercept and dismantle drug trafficking operations.
116 drug mules arrested in 24 months
The seizure comes amid sustained efforts by law enforcement agencies to clamp down on drug trafficking through OR Tambo International Airport.
Over the past 24 months, a total of 116 drug mules have been arrested at the airport, highlighting the continued efforts by law enforcement agencies to detect and prevent the transportation of illicit drugs through South Africa’s borders.
Commitment to border security
Mathe said the SAPS reiterates its commitment to working with SARS Customs, the BMA and other stakeholders to strengthen border security, disrupt organised criminal networks and ensure that those involved in the illicit drug trade are brought to justice.
ALSO READ: Drugs worth over R9.7 million seized in Gqeberha drug bust
