A 52-year-old South African man has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport after authorities allegedly discovered suspected heroin valued at more than R2 million in his luggage.
The suspect was reportedly intercepted on Sunday, September 20, shortly after arriving on a flight from Accra, Ghana, during an intelligence-led operation involving the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Border Management Authority (BMA).
According to SAPS, officers conducted a search of the man’s luggage and discovered several bullet-shaped objects and blocks containing substances suspected to be heroin.
The narcotics are estimated to have a street value exceeding R2 million. However, authorities said investigations are still underway to establish the precise quantity of the drugs and determine whether the suspect is connected to a larger international drug trafficking network.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court later this week, where he is expected to face charges relating to drug smuggling.
The arrest is reportedly the third suspected drug mule to be apprehended at OR Tambo International Airport within a period of three weeks, as South African authorities step up efforts to curb the movement of narcotics through major entry points.
The latest development comes amid heightened international concern over drug consignments allegedly linked to Ghana.
Following a number of reported drug seizures, President John Mahama has directed an inter-agency task force to investigate the cases and submit a roadmap for tackling drug smuggling within two weeks.
The latest arrest has further raised concerns about international drug trafficking networks and allegations that Ghana is being used as a transit point for narcotics destined for other countries.
By: Prince Martey-Sogar