SAPS has intercepted five luggage bags containing 216 blocks of cocaine estimated at street value of more than R200m at OR Tambo International Airport.

The national commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, has commended a multidisciplinary team comprising the SAPS, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs and the Border Management Authority (BMA) for intercepting five luggage bags containing 216 blocks of cocaine weighing approximately 250kg.

The seizure is a testament to the effectiveness of co-ordinated law enforcement efforts and the commitment of frontline officers to disrupting drug trafficking networks that seek to use South Africa’s ports of entry to move illicit substances.

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Masemola praised the team for its vigilance and professionalism, emphasising that the SAPS will continue to work closely with its law enforcement partners to identify, intercept and dismantle drug trafficking operations.

“The seizure comes amid sustained efforts by law enforcement agencies to clamp down on drug trafficking through the country’s busiest international airport. Over the past 24 months, a total of 116 drug mules have been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport,” said Masemola.

“These arrests highlight the continued efforts by law enforcement agencies to detect and prevent the transportation of illicit drugs through South Africa’s borders,” said Masemola.

“The SAPS reiterates its commitment to working with SARS Customs, the BMA and other stakeholders to strengthen border security, disrupt organised criminal networks and ensure that those involved in the illicit drug trade are brought to justice,” added Gauteng police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe.