A joint operation between the SAPS and customs officials led to the interception of a drug shipment and the seizure of cocaine worth approximately R6 million at OR Tambo International Airport on March 4.

Preliminary investigations reveal that the shipment originated in São Paulo, Brazil, and was destined for France via South Africa.

The cocaine had been concealed in boxes disguised as hair products.

Also read: Police arrest another drug mule at OR Tambo International Airport

Authorities have confirmed that investigations into the smuggling operation are ongoing.

In a separate incident on the same day, SAPS officers arrested a 55-year-old Nigerian national on drug trafficking charges.

The suspect, who had arrived on a flight from São Paulo, was intercepted and subjected to a medical examination, which confirmed he had ingested drug-filled “bullets,” believed to contain cocaine.