Traveller from Brazil arrested with cocaine worth over R2m at OR Tambo

Customs officers discovered 8.6 kilograms of cocaine, valued at approximately R2.15 million, concealed in the man’s luggage.

A suspect travelling from Brazil to South Africa was arrested for allegedly bringing drugs worth millions into the country. He was caught red-handed at OR Tambo International Airport.

READ: Government’s R93m spending spree: Lavish upgrades for ‘Ministerial Mansions’

SUSPECT REFUSED ENTRY TO SA BEFORE DRUGS FOUND AT OR TAMBO

Upon arrival, the 29-year-old man was refused entry into South Africa by the Department of Home Affairs. Thereafter, he was escorted to Customs for processing, said Hawks spokesperson Colonel Philani Nkwalase.

READ: Diarrhoeal disease outbreak claims six lives: Health Department

“His bag was searched by Customs officers, and they found cocaine soaked and dried into the traveller’s rug weighing 8.6 kilograms worth approximately R2.15 million,” said the Hawks spokesperson.

READ: Ship mishap at V&A Waterfront: Sailor injured as vessel topples over

FIRST COURT APPEARANCE ON MONDAY

A multidisciplinary team at OR Tambo immediately arrested the traveller from Brazil. The drugs were seized as part of the investigation.

READ: Four nabbed, claimed R285 000 SASSA grants for ‘ghost’ children

The man is expected to make his first court appearance in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 22 May.

READ: Dr Nandipha Magudumana files urgent application to have arrest declared unlawful