Major Cocaine Bust at OR Tambo Airport: Drugs Hidden as Hair Products

In a significant operation at OR Tambo International Airport, the South African Police Service (SAPS) successfully intercepted a consignment of cocaine valued at approximately R6 million. The narcotics were ingeniously concealed within boxes labeled as hair products, highlighting sophisticated smuggling tactics employed by international drug syndicates.

Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Van Wyk, spokesperson for the SAPS, confirmed that the operation took place on March 4, 2025. The illicit cargo reportedly originated from São Paulo, Brazil, and was destined for France, using South Africa as a transit route. This seizure underscores the persistent challenge South Africa faces with drug trafficking at its borders, with criminal networks attempting to exploit the country as a convenient intermediary point.

On the same day, SAPS made further arrests involving drug trafficking. A 55-year-old Nigerian man was apprehended after arriving from São Paulo. He was found to have ingested cocaine worth an estimated R7.5 million. An X-ray examination at the airport revealed several capsules, commonly referred to as 'bullets', containing the drug within his digestive system. This traditional method of smuggling by 'mules' continues to pose a significant challenge to law enforcement agencies.

Additionally, two other individuals, a male and a female who arrived on separate flights from Brazil, were arrested following routine inspections by the police. Authorities discovered R2.5 million worth of cocaine with the female suspect and R5 million within the luggage of the male suspect.

Despite the successful seizures and arrests, no individuals have yet been apprehended in connection with the initial shipment concealed as hair products. Ongoing investigations aim to uncover the broader network involved in this smuggling operation, with particular attention being paid to links with international drug trafficking rings. The SAPS is expected to provide further updates as their investigation progresses.

This operation at OR Tambo International Airport highlights the critical role that international cooperation and vigilant law enforcement play in combatting the global drug trade that often uses African nations as strategic nodes.