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Five Suspected Drug Mules Arrested at OR Tambo With R5 Million in Narcotics

Police say the case points to tighter checks at South Africa’s busiest airport.

Overview

  • Gauteng police detained five South African women at OR Tambo International Airport on Saturday, March 28, as they prepared to fly to China via Dubai.
  • Officers found drugs hidden in the suspects’ sneakers, underwear, and body cavities, according to the South African Police Service.
  • The five remain in custody and are due in Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, March 31, on charges linked to drug trafficking.
  • Investigators, working with Airports Company South Africa, have not disclosed the drug type and are probing possible ties to a broader smuggling network.
  • Earlier in March, cargo checks at the airport uncovered crystal meth worth R2.2 million bound for the Philippines and cannabis shipped from Morocco, which exporter Cannaflex says was a lawful research consignment.