A Netherlands national has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport after police discovered 60kg of khat concealed in his luggage during a major anti-drug trafficking operation over the long weekend.
The suspect was intercepted on Sunday morning while preparing to board a flight to London.
Drug haul discovered during luggage inspection
Authorities inspected the man’s baggage and uncovered the large quantity of khat hidden inside, preventing the shipment from leaving the country.
The arrest marks another significant breakthrough for law enforcement agencies operating at South Africa’s busiest airport.
Second major airport drug bust in less than 24 hours
The latest seizure comes shortly after the arrest of a Brazilian national at the same airport, where police uncovered cocaine worth an estimated R8.7 million.
These back-to-back arrests have highlighted growing efforts by South African authorities to clamp down on international drug trafficking networks using the country’s ports of entry.
Coordinated law enforcement operation
South African Police Service spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the successful interceptions were the result of coordinated operations involving SAPS, Airports Company South Africa security, Border Management Authority officials and South African Revenue Service customs teams.
She said the operations demonstrate heightened vigilance and South Africa’s firm stance against transnational organised crime.
“The latest arrests demonstrate the vigilance and heightened operations by SAPS working closely with ACSA security, BMA officials, SARS customs at ports of entry,” said Mathe.
The accused is expected to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court later this week on charges related to drug trafficking.
Border security intensified
Police say anti-drug trafficking efforts will continue to be strengthened at key entry and exit points across the country as authorities work to dismantle organised criminal syndicates and protect South Africa’s borders.
