Authorities at OR Tambo International Airport in Gauteng have detained a Brazilian individual accused of drug trafficking, after discovering cocaine valued at R8.7 million.
The arrested individual, identified as a 26-year-old transgender person, was taken into custody upon their arrival from Brazil on Sunday afternoon, following a police-led search based on received intelligence concerning suspected drug transport.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, spokesperson for the South African Police Service (SAPS), stated that during the search, officers uncovered several blocks of cocaine that had been expertly concealed within the luggage of the suspect.
“This arrest forms part of ongoing intelligence-driven operations targeting transnational drug trafficking networks operating through South Africa’s largest port of entry,” Mathe explained.
“In recent months, authorities at OR Tambo International Airport have successfully intercepted multiple drug traffickers attempting to transport illegal substances into the nation,” he added.
According to Mathe, disrupting these drug trafficking efforts has significantly aided in combating the proliferation of illegal narcotics and fighting organized crime.
“The suspect is set to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, facing charges related to drug trafficking,” she concluded.
