Pensioners arrested for attempting to smuggle heroin worth millions
While Cape Town streets may be in shambles due to the ongoing taxi strike, law enforcement remain vigilant as two separate cases of pensioners caught trying to smuggle heroin.
Two pensioners arrested at Cape Town International Airport, one suspect being a 63-year-old woman, caught carrying heroin worth approximately R 1,6 million.
Allegedly attempting to smuggle 3.5 kilograms of heroin, the elderly person’s identity remains undisclosed.
Customs officers, during a routine security check at the departure gate, apprehended the pensioner on Saturday, 5 August, according to IOL reports.
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The Hawk South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau received a tip-off that a 63-year-old woman entered South Africa and would be carrying 3.5kg of heroin worth R1.6 million on her way out.
Hawks spokesperson Warrant Officer Zinzi Hani reported that they intercepted the elderly person before boarding an Ethiopian Airlines flight.
Hani added, “Multiple units collaborated in apprehending her.”
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ANOTHER PENSIONER NABBED FOR DRUGS
During the same week, authorities confiscated another batch of heroin at Cape Town International Airport.
Lieutenant-Colonel Malcolm Pojie revealed that a 62-year-old man attempted to smuggle 3.5kg of heroin to Europe.
The two pensioners arrested could be part of a new syndicate according to reports.
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COULD THIS BE A NEW DRUG SYNDICATE
Upon investigation, it was revealed that the pensioner may have been coerced into carrying out the smuggling operation by an organised criminal syndicate, taking advantage of his age.
Opera News highlights drug traffickers targeting vulnerable individuals as mules, exploiting their perceived low risk of scrutiny by law enforcement agencies.
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THE INVESTIGATION UNFOLDS
The Hawks assumed control of the inquiry due to the significant nature of the offense.
The 63-year-old lady appeared before the Bellville Magistrate’s Court , while the 62-year-old man will appear on Tuesday, 8 August.
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