SARS intercepts cocaine worth R167m at OR Tambo

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has intercepted more than 333kg of cocaine worth an estimated R167m at OR Tambo International Airport.

The drugs were seized during a targeted enforcement operation involving a flight arriving from São Paulo, Brazil, with Customs officials conducting coordinated checks of aircraft baggage, passenger arrivals and cargo.

During baggage screening at the international arrivals hall, officials identified two suitcases containing 75 bricks of cocaine weighing 83.10kg.

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The matter was immediately handed over to the police for further investigation and forensic processing.

Separately, a SARS narcotics detection dog reacted positively to cargo offloaded from the same flight. A subsequent inspection uncovered at least 250kg of cocaine.

SARS Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhubu said the seizure of cocaine from both passenger baggage and unmanifested cargo on the same flight demonstrated the value of integrated enforcement.

“This operation demonstrates that SARS is steadily strengthening its capability to detect and disrupt sophisticated smuggling syndicates. The success is the result of intelligence-led operations, the effective use of data and risk analysis, and the unwavering vigilance and diligence of our Customs officers, who work around the clock to protect South Africa’s borders and economy,” said Makhubu.

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He said every successful seizure helps protect communities from the impact of drug trafficking while reinforcing the integrity of legitimate trade.

“I wish to thank all law enforcement agencies for working together to disrupt drug trafficking,” he said.

Makhubu also thanked international partners for their cooperation in combating transnational organised crime and safeguarding South Africa’s borders