Brazilian National Arrested at OR Tambo with R1.8 Million Worth of Cocaine Wrapped Around His Body
South African authorities have arrested a 25-year-old Brazilian national at OR Tambo International Airport after discovering over three kilograms of cocaine wrapped around his body.
Also Read: Drug Trafficking Bust: South African Woman Arrested at OR Tambo with Drugs Hidden in Her Stomach
Arrest Following São Paulo Flight Arrival
The suspect was arrested on Sunday shortly after arriving from São Paulo, Brazil.
National police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk confirmed the arrest stating that they apprehended the Brazilian national for drug trafficking.
“Police operationalised intelligence and arrested the Brazilian national at OR Tambo International Airport for drug trafficking.”
He had the drugs wrapped around his upper body. Pictures of him with the drugs still wrapped around his body were shared by the South African Criminal Justice System on X ,(formerly Twitter).
Brazilian National Arrested at OR Tambo with R1.8 Million Worth of Cocaine Wrapped Around His Body (Image Credit: X @RSA_CJS)The seized drugs, confirmed to be cocaine, have an estimated street value of R1.8 million.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrate Court soon.
Also Read: Another Drug Mule Arrested at OR Tambo With Drugs in His Stomach
Rise in Drug Mule Arrests at OR Tambo
This recent arrest adds to a growing trend of drug mule apprehensions at OR Tambo International Airport. In September, a 21-year-old South African woman was arrested after landing from São Paulo. She was found to have ingested drug bullets that were later extracted following a medical examination.
Similarly, in October, a 43-year-old man from Paraguay was arrested under similar circumstances. Medical scans revealed foreign objects in his stomach, which were later confirmed to be cocaine bullets.