Drugs of more than R200 million have been confiscated at ORTIA. The National SAPS office says police officers, along with SARS and the BMA officials, seized the drugs, with an estimated street value of more than R200 million. The drugs were confiscated at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

Over the past 24 months, a total of 116 drug mules have been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport.

 

Drugs of more than R200 million confiscated at ORTIA

Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says officers had intercepted 5 luggage bags which contained 216 blocks of cocaine. The narcotics weighed approximately 250 kilograms. The National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, has commended the multidisciplinary team for the major drug bust. He says, over the past 24 months, a total of 116 drug mules have been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport.

The seizure comes amid sustained efforts by law enforcement agencies to clamp down on drug trafficking through the country’s busiest international airport.

116 drug mules have been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport over 24 months

Mathe says the significant seizure is a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts. She added that it also points to the commitment of frontline officers to disrupt drug trafficking networks. These criminals seek to use South Africa’s ports of entry to move illicit substances. General Masemola also praised the team for its vigilance and professionalism. He emphasised that the SAPS will continue to work closely with its law enforcement partners to identify, intercept and dismantle drug trafficking operations.

These arrests highlight the continued efforts by law enforcement agencies to detect and prevent the transportation of illicit drugs through South Africa’s borders.