Brazilian Drug Mule
By Karabo Marifi
The South African Police Service (SAPS) arrested a 44-year-old Brazilian woman at OR Tambo International Airport on Thursday, 28 November 2024. The suspect, who had arrived from São Paulo at 13:00, was found with cocaine valued at R1.8 million concealed around her upper body.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the national spokesperson for SAPS, confirmed the arrest, stating, “She faces a charge of drug trafficking and will appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate soon.” This incident marks the second arrest within a week involving a drug trafficker with cocaine strapped to their torso. On Sunday, a Brazilian male was apprehended under similar circumstances, also in possession of cocaine worth R1.8 million.
The recent arrests underscore the ongoing efforts by OR Tambo International Airport police to combat drug trafficking. Brigadier Mathe emphasized, “OR Tambo International Airport police continue to sniff out drug traffickers as they land, sending out a strong message that South Africa is not a playground for drug peddlers.”
These operations are part of a broader strategy to dismantle drug smuggling networks targeting South Africa. In recent months, there has been a noticeable increase in arrests at OR Tambo International Airport. In October and November alone, approximately 14 suspected drug mules were detained, with at least one arrest occurring weekly in October.
The SAPS has been vigilant in intercepting various methods employed by traffickers. For instance, in early October, two Dutch nationals were arrested separately for attempting to smuggle a total of 80kg of khat through the airport. Both suspects were en route from South Africa to the Netherlands via Dubai when intercepted.
In another case, a 21-year-old South African woman and a 30-year-old Namibian woman were arrested in September after being found with drug-filled capsules in their stomachs. The women had ingested 110 and 60 drug bullets, respectively, upon arrival from São Paulo.
The SAPS’s commitment to curbing drug trafficking extends beyond OR Tambo International Airport. National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola has reiterated that South Africa is not a haven for international drug syndicates. He stated, “Our members throughout the country remain vigilant and ready to intercept these drug traffickers.”
In July 2024, a Brazilian national was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport with cocaine worth R1 million strapped to his body. This arrest was part of a series of successful operations, including the seizure of R252 million worth of cocaine in the Western Cape and the shutdown of a drug lab valued at R2 billion in Limpopo.
The consistent efforts by law enforcement agencies highlight a robust stance against drug trafficking. The SAPS continues to work closely with international authorities, sharing information and intensifying efforts to intercept criminals and illicit substances.
As the 44-year-old Brazilian woman awaits her court appearance, the SAPS’s message remains clear: South Africa is committed to eradicating drug trafficking and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
Brazilian Drug Mule Arrested at OR Tambo with R1.8 Million Worth of Cocaine
Brazilian Drug Mule Arrested at OR Tambo with R1.8 Million Worth of Cocaine
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