GAUTENG – A significant cocaine seizure valued at an estimated R28 million was successfully executed at OR Tambo International Airport, disrupting a suspected international drug trafficking operation. The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed the confiscation of 95 kilograms of illicit narcotics following a highly coordinated, intelligence-driven intervention.
The operation was conducted on Friday, 31 July 2026, at approximately 13:00. Acting on critical information provided by the SAPS Crime Intelligence’s Border Integrity Unit regarding a suspected drug consignment, members of the SAPS Visible Policing Unit mobilized at the airport’s cargo section. The interception was executed in close collaboration with Customs officials and operational members of Menzies Aviation.
Authorities confirmed that the seized cargo had arrived on a flight originating from São Paulo, Brazil. The 95 kilograms of cocaine were secured immediately upon arrival at the cargo facility, preventing the illicit shipment from entering domestic distribution networks.
According to the official SAPS statement, no arrests have been effected at this stage. However, comprehensive investigations are actively ongoing to identify, track, and apprehend the individuals and organized criminal networks involved in this attempted smuggling operation.
Law enforcement authorities reaffirmed their commitment to dismantling organized criminal syndicates involved in the illicit drug trade. The SAPS emphasized that it will continue to work alongside its law enforcement partners to ensure that South Africa’s borders and ports of entry remain rigorously protected from criminal exploitation.
Â
Â