Police arrest Brazilian at OR Tambo airport with R8.7 million in cocaine

The police have announced the arrest of a Brazilian national at OR Tambo International Airport after they discovered cocaine worth R8.7 million in the suspect’s luggage.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the 26-year-old suspect was arrested on Sunday following intelligence-led operations.

"The 26-year-old transgender suspect was apprehended upon arrival on Sunday afternoon from Brazil after police, acting on intelligence, conducted a search of the suspects luggage," Mathe said.

"During the search, members discovered multiple blocks of cocaine wrapped and concealed inside his luggage".

"This arrest forms part of ongoing intelligence-driven operations targeting transnational drug trafficking networks operating through South Africa’s largest port of entry," Mathe said.

"Police at OR Tambo International Airport have in recent months recorded several successes in intercepting drug traffickers attempting to smuggle narcotics into the country. The interception of drug traffickers has gone a long way in disrupting the supply of illicit drugs and strengthening the fight against organised crime.

"The suspect is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, April 28, on charges of drug trafficking.

IOL previously reported that five South African women were arrested at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg after being found in possession of drugs worth more than R5 million. 

The arrests were carried out on March 28, during a joint operation between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Airports Company South Africa (ACSA).

According to SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk, the suspects were intercepted while preparing to board a flight out of the country.

“A preliminary report suggests that the suspects were en route to China via Dubai,” she said.

IOL News

mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za

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