Johannesburg – Authorities have seized a substantial shipment of cocaine estimated to be worth around R28 million at OR Tambo International Airport.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a spokesperson, confirmed that the drugs were confiscated on Friday, 31 July 2026.
She indicated that the South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Intelligence’s Border Integrity Unit had been alerted about a suspected drug shipment arriving from Brazil.
“The information prompted immediate action from members of the SAPS Visible Policing Unit at OR Tambo International Airport, in cooperation with Customs officials and Menzies Aviation personnel,” Brigadier Mathe explained.
“The cargo, which arrived on a flight from São Paulo, Brazil, was intercepted shortly after landing around 13:00.”
“A total of 95 kilograms of cocaine were recovered from the cargo section of OR Tambo International Airport.”
Brigadier Mathe noted that no arrests have been made so far.
“An investigation is underway to identify and apprehend those involved in the attempted smuggling,” she stated.
“The SAPS is committed to dismantling organized crime networks linked to the illegal drug trade and will continue to work with law enforcement partners to protect South Africa’s borders and entry points from criminal activities.”
