Nigerian National Caught Smuggling Cocaine at OR Tambo Airport
A Nigerian national has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport in South Africa for attempting to smuggle drugs into the country. The 55-year-old man had arrived from São Paulo, Brazil, and was intercepted by authorities during a routine check at the busy airport. Law enforcement officials suspected foul play and conducted further investigations, leading to the discovery that the suspect had swallowed multiple cocaine bullets.
Authorities confirmed that the estimated street value of the drugs found inside the suspect’s body is around R7.5 million. Gauteng police spokesperson, Amanda van Wyk, stated that the man is currently being held under medical supervision as he continues to release the illicit substances. “The suspect is expected to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court soon,” she added.
Police Confirm Growing Number of Drug Mules Arrested at OR Tambo
The latest arrest is part of an ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking at South Africa’s major airports. During a strategic meeting on transnational crime, the National Police Commissioner, General Fannie Masemola, revealed that authorities had arrested at least 20 drug mules at OR Tambo since the beginning of 2024. He highlighted how drug syndicates continue to use international airports to transport narcotics, with mules often ingesting drug bullets to evade detection.
Masemola recalled recent cases of South African nationals caught smuggling cocaine. Just days before the Nigerian suspect was arrested, a South African man and woman were intercepted separately after arriving from Brazil. The female suspect was found with R2.5 million worth of cocaine, while the male had drugs valued at R5 million hidden in his luggage.
In another incident in December 2024, two Brazilian drug mules were arrested at OR Tambo. One was caught carrying over 4 kg of cocaine in his luggage, while an X-ray scan revealed that the other suspect had swallowed at least 15 drug bullets filled with the illegal substance. Law enforcement officers have emphasized the need for continued vigilance to curb drug smuggling activities at the airport.
Nigerian Suspect Under Medical Supervision Following Drug Discovery
Authorities closely monitored the Nigerian suspect following his arrest to ensure the safe expulsion of the drug bullets. Medical examinations confirmed that he had ingested several packets of cocaine, which were gradually being released under controlled conditions.
Van Wyk noted that while this arrest was significant, it was only one of many cases highlighting the increasing number of traffickers using similar methods. “Swallowing drug bullets is a dangerous and common method among smugglers trying to move cocaine internationally. Unfortunately, many mules risk their lives to transport drugs for cartels,” she said.
Investigators suspect that the arrested Nigerian national was working as part of a larger drug syndicate. Intelligence reports indicate that traffickers often use South Africa as a transit hub before distributing narcotics to other countries. The police commissioner also mentioned an ongoing collaboration with international agencies to dismantle drug trafficking networks.
South African Authorities Intensify Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking
The arrest of the Nigerian suspect is part of broader efforts by South African authorities to disrupt international drug trafficking networks. OR Tambo International Airport has remained a hotspot for drug smuggling, with multiple arrests recorded in recent months.
Masemola noted that aside from drug mules, law enforcement officials had intercepted major drug consignments at the country’s seaports. One such operation at Durban Harbour uncovered cocaine hidden inside paint containers. The shipment had originated from Brazil and was destined for distribution in Gauteng.
“We have intensified intelligence-led operations, working with international partners to intercept drug shipments before they reach their final destination,” Masemola explained.
Nigerian Drug Mule’s Arrest Raises Concerns Over Smuggling Trends
The arrest of the Nigerian suspect has once again highlighted the persistent challenge of drug trafficking through OR Tambo International Airport. The increasing number of drug mules being caught suggests that international crime syndicates remain active despite law enforcement efforts.
Authorities stress that while some traffickers are caught, many more may still be operating undetected. The police continue to urge the public to provide information that could assist in dismantling these networks.
As investigations into the Nigerian suspect’s case continue, law enforcement officials are working to trace his connections to possible drug syndicates. The suspect remains in custody and will face charges related to drug trafficking once he appears in court.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to combating drug smuggling, emphasizing that traffickers will face the full force of the law. The arrest of the Nigerian drug mule serves as another warning to individuals attempting to transport narcotics through South Africa’s borders.
