An alleged British drug mule, arrested last week for trying to smuggle TIK out of the country, will remain behind bars after he abandoned his bail application.

The 70-year-old Matthew Hamilton Swire appeared at the Bellville Magistrates Court yesterday 10 June, following his arrest on 6 June.

The Hawks swooped on Swire at Cape Town International Airport before he boarded a flight back to the UK, and confiscated 4.1kg of TIK in his luggage worth an estimated R600 000.

The Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau team based in Bellville, in conjunction with Border Police, based at the Cape Town International Airport, conducted the search and seizure operation after receiving a tip-off that a drug mule was leaving South Africa.

Acting on the information received, officers spotted the suspect and upon searching his luggage, a number of packets of crystal methamphetamine (tik) was found in a hidden compartment.

The Provincial Head of the Hawks in the Western Cape, Major General Makgato commended the swift reaction by the team that led to the interception of the alleged drug trafficker.

The matter has been postponed to 1 August for further investigation.

Meanwhile, the Airports Company of South Africa (ACSA) has also commended the actions of the Hawks and Border Police that led to the arrest of the alleged drug mule.

ACSA Regional General Manager Mark Maclean has thanked law enforcement agencies for their ongoing work and dedication to stamping out the smuggling of illicit drugs across South Africa’s borders.

 

“We have a zero-tolerance approach to any criminal activity across our airport network in South Africa. This unwavering stance is integral to our mission of maintaining the highest safety and security standards. Our commitment involves rigorous security measures, continuous monitoring, and close collaboration with law enforcement agencies to prevent and address any threats. By prioritising safety and security, we aim to provide a secure and trustworthy environment for everyone who passes through our airports.”

Maclean has warned that ACSA views drug trafficking through its airports as an extremely serious offence and they will continue to work with law enforcement agencies to stop any departing or arriving passengers who attempt to take illicit drugs through airports.

“The arrest of this drug mule serves as a warning to potential offenders that they will be apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”