Two suspected drug mules were arrested on Thursday at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, following their arrival from São Paulo, Brazil.
The suspects, a 24-year-old Brazilian man and a 51-year-old South African woman were intercepted by authorities after landing at the airport. Both individuals were found to have swallowed “bullets” – capsules believed to contain cocaine.
A medical examination confirmed the presence of the drugs, which are a common method used by smugglers to transport illicit substances undetected.
A Growing Issue: Fifth Arrest This Year
This latest arrest marks the fifth incident of drug smuggling at the airport since the start of 2025, as authorities continue to battle a rise in narcotics trafficking through South Africa’s busiest airport.
Colonel Amanda van Wyk, the police spokesperson, highlighted the growing trend, underscoring the persistence of organized crime attempting to exploit international air travel for drug smuggling.
While investigations are ongoing, officials are working to determine the full scope of the seizure, including the total amount and street value of the drugs.
More Drugs Discovered in Suspects’ Luggage
In addition to the cocaine found inside the suspects’ bodies, police also uncovered more narcotics hidden in their luggage. Authorities seized additional cocaine, further intensifying the case.
Moreover, a separate shipment of white powder, suspected to be heroin, was intercepted by police, with an estimated value of over R200,000.
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#sapsHQ Two suspected drug mules arrested at OR Tambo International Airport. A Brazilian man (24) and a South African woman (51), who had travelled on the same flight from São Paulo, Brazil, were intercepted upon their arrival on Thursday, 20/03. Their arrest led to the seizure… pic.twitter.com/ARhvdkRv0Y
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) March 21, 2025
Preliminary investigations indicate that this heroin shipment was intended for delivery to London, United Kingdom, marking another international link in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking.
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