The South African Police Service (SAPS) has made three significant drug-related arrests at OR Tambo International Airport within a single week, highlighting intensified efforts to combat narcotics trafficking through the country’s busiest port of entry.
First Arrest: Nigerian National with Ingested Cocaine
On 05 June 2025, authorities apprehended a 42-year-old Nigerian national upon his arrival from São Paulo, Brazil, while he was in transit to Nigeria. The suspect, who landed at 07:00, was flagged by airport security and subsequently subjected to a medical examination. An X-ray scan revealed more than 70 drug-filled pellets—commonly referred to as “bullets”—suspected to contain cocaine concealed in his digestive system.
Second Arrest: Brazilian Woman with Ingested Drugs
Five days later, on 10 June 2025, SAPS officers intercepted a 30-year-old Brazilian woman shortly after her flight from São Paulo touched down at 06:15. During a routine luggage inspection, the suspect admitted to having ingested over 100 cocaine pellets, a claim later verified by a medical X-ray.
Third Arrest: Ethiopian National with Khat Concealment
Later the same day, police intercepted a 57-year-old Ethiopian national at the airport’s check-in counter as he prepared to board an international flight. A search of his luggage uncovered over 90 kilograms of Khat, a stimulant drug banned in South Africa.
All three suspects were taken into custody and are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court to face charges of drug trafficking.
Ongoing Crackdown on Drug Smuggling
These arrests form part of SAPS’s intelligence-driven operations targeting drug syndicates exploiting major transit hubs. Over the past six months, authorities have intercepted more than 23 suspected drug traffickers at OR Tambo International Airport alone.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, SAPS spokesperson, praised the operations, stating: “These arrests demonstrate our commitment to dismantling drug trafficking networks and securing our borders. We will continue to work with international partners to disrupt these criminal activities.”