Authorities have seized about 250 kilograms of cocaine, valued at more than R200 million, at OR Tambo International Airport after a flight from São Paulo, Brazil, landed in Gauteng on Sunday.
The drugs were concealed in five luggage bags and divided into 216 blocks, according to the South African Police Service. The seizure was carried out by a multidisciplinary team involving SAPS, South African Revenue Service Customs and the Border Management Authority.
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola praised the officers and agencies involved. He said the coordinated operation showed the importance of cooperation among frontline authorities in disrupting attempts to move illicit substances through South Africa’s ports of entry.
The seizure followed forensic testing at the scene, police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said in an earlier update. Police had not yet located the person suspected of transporting the cocaine, according to that report. Investigations are continuing.
The operation highlights the role of airport and border agencies in intercepting suspected trafficking consignments before they move further through the country. The estimated value and weight were reported by police; no further details about a suspect or possible charges had been released in the latest update.
Sources: SABC News; SABC News, earlier police update; IOL.