A major drug bust at OR Tambo International Airport has seen authorities seize approximately 250kg of cocaine, with an estimated street value of more than R200 million.
OR Tambo International Airport / FrogsLegs71 / Wikimedia Commons / Illustrative purposes only
The drugs were discovered in five luggage bags containing 216 blocks of cocaine, according to the South African Police Service (SAPS). The operation involved SAPS, South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs and the Border Management Authority (BMA).
The seizure highlights the ongoing challenge of stopping illegal drugs from moving through South Africa’s busiest international airport.
A joint operation to stop drug trafficking
SAPS spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola had commended the team involved in the interception for it’s vigilance and professionalism.
The operation brought together several law enforcement agencies, with authorities continuing to work together to identify and disrupt drug trafficking networks using the country’s ports of entry.
According to Mathe, SAPS remains committed to working alongside SARS Customs, the BMA and other partners to strengthen border security and tackle organised crime.
More than 100 drug mules arrested in two years
The latest seizure comes amid continued efforts to prevent drug trafficking through OR Tambo International Airport.
Mathe said 116 drug mules had been arrested at the airport over the past 24 months, highlighting the ongoing pressure on authorities to detect and intercept illicit substances entering or moving through the country.
The latest bust is another significant seizure, although authorities have not provided further details about those responsible for transporting the drugs in this incident.
Law enforcement agencies say they will continue working together to disrupt trafficking operations and strengthen security at South Africa’s points of entry.
Source (IOL)
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