Two more drug mules arrested at OR Tambo airport

The National SAPS confirmed that a total of four suspected drug traffickers have been arrested at O.R. Tambo International Airport in less than a week, after two more alleged drug mules were apprehended.

The latest arrests include a 33-year-old South African woman reportedly en route to Hong Kong, with drugs suspected to be cocaine and tik hidden in her luggage.

“Further investigation led to the discovery of drugs worth more than R500 000, suspected to be cocaine and crystal methamphetamine, concealed inside her luggage,” said Lt Col Amanda van Wyk, noting that the suspect was arrested on 25 April.

Van Wyk noted that a 66-year-old Somali national, who was in possession of a Netherlands passport, was also arrested after being found with the drug khat.

She said officers stationed at the airport received information about “suspected drug traffickers allegedly planning to travel to Frankfurt and London via Doha”.

A search of the suspect’s luggage allegedly led to the discovery.

“A search of the suspect’s luggage led to the discovery of 55 kilograms of khat, with an estimated street value of more than R100 000.”

Police also found abandoned luggage on the same day containing approximately 45 kilograms of khat, valued at more than R90,000.

Authorities said the latest arrests bring “the total number of drug traffickers arrested at this international gateway to four over the past three days”.

Over the weekend, police carried out arrests following the discovery of more than R8 million worth of cocaine and 60 kilograms of khat linked to travellers at the airport.

All suspects are due to appear at the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court this week on charges related to drug trafficking, as the SAPS continue investigations.