Brazilian Drug Mule
By Karabo Marifi
Police at OR Tambo International Airport have arrested two Brazilian nationals, aged 30 and 35, on charges of drug trafficking. The suspects, who arrived from São Paulo, Brazil, were intercepted on Sunday, 15 December 2024. One was found with over 4kg of cocaine concealed in his luggage, while the other had ingested drug-filled capsules, confirmed by a medical X-ray. To date, fifteen such capsules containing cocaine have been recovered. Both individuals are expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court this week.
This incident is part of a concerning trend of increased drug trafficking through South Africa’s major airports. In the past two weeks alone, four drug traffickers have been apprehended at OR Tambo International Airport. On 6 December 2024, a 43-year-old Paraguayan woman was arrested after arriving from São Paulo; she had ingested 33 cocaine-filled capsules. Earlier, on 3 December, a 21-year-old Brazilian man was detained under similar circumstances.
Cape Town International Airport has also seen significant drug busts. In October 2022, a 37-year-old man arriving from Dubai was arrested after authorities found 4kg of cocaine, valued at R2.4 million, hidden inside sweet wrappers in his luggage. More recently, in June 2024, a 70-year-old UK citizen was apprehended with 4.1kg of methamphetamine (tik) worth approximately R600,000 concealed in a hidden compartment of his suitcase.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has noted a marked increase in the use of drug mules, particularly those arriving from São Paulo, a known high-risk departure point for drug smuggling. In a four-month period, 14 suspects have been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport on charges related to drug trafficking. Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk emphasized the dangers faced by individuals who ingest drug-filled capsules, noting the risk of rupture and potential fatality.
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) has commended the efforts of law enforcement agencies in intercepting these illicit activities. Mark Maclean, ACSA’s Regional General Manager, stated, “We have a zero-tolerance approach to any criminal activity across our airport network in South Africa.” He further highlighted the importance of collaboration with law enforcement to maintain safety and security standards.
Arrested criminals
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
_________
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #news #politics #business