R36m suspected cocaine bust at Durban Harbour
An investigation is underway following the seizure of approximately 90kg blocks of suspected cocaine at Durban Harbour
MULTIPLE law enforcement departments seized approximately 90kg of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of R36m at the Durban Harbour on Saturday, June 6.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI / HAWKS), through the Serious Organised Crime Investigation’s (SOCI) South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB), together with officials from Customs, the Durban Vehicle Processing Organisation (VPO), and the Local Criminal Record Centre (LCRC) were involved in the operation.
Members of the SANEB were reportedly alerted by a Customs official to suspected cocaine concealed within an excavator that had arrived aboard a vessel from Santos, Brazil.
DPCI spokesperson Colonel Katlego Mogale expalained, “Upon arrival, the scene was handed over to DPCI members by Customs officials. A thorough inspection of the excavator revealed suspicious packages concealed within a panel leading to the engine compartment.”
Mogale added that further examination resulted in the seizure of 47 blocks containing a powdered substance suspected to be cocaine.
“While the first scene was being processed, Customs officials reported the discovery of a second concealment on another excavator that had already been offloaded from the vessel. A subsequent inspection led to the seizure of an additional 43 blocks of suspected cocaine. In total, approximately 90kg of suspected cocaine were seized.
“Based on an estimated value of R400 000 per kilogram, the drugs have an approximate street value of R36m.”
The acting Provincial Head, Brigadier Zenobia Mulligan, applauded the multi disciplinary team for their alertness and dedication.
“The DPCI remains committed to disrupting transnational drug trafficking networks and safeguarding South Africa’s ports of entry from organised criminal activities even when their integrity is under scrutiny,” she said.
No arrests have been made at this stage, and the matter remains under investigation. The seized exhibits will be transported to the Forensic Science Laboratory for chemical analysis.
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