Major drug bust at OR Tambo: R8.7 Million cocaine seized, Brazilian trafficker arrested

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A Brazilian drug trafficker was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport after police intercepted cocaine valued at approximately R8.7 million.

Police reports indicate that a 26-year-old transgender suspect was arrested upon arriving from Brazil on Sunday afternoon, following a luggage search based on intelligence.

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, during the search, members discovered multiple blocks of cocaine wrapped and concealed inside his luggage.

“This arrest forms part of ongoing intelligence-driven operations targeting transnational drug trafficking networks operating through South Africa’s largest port of entry.

#sapsHQ [SUCCESS #DrugsOffTheStreets] Police at OR Tambo International Airport have arrested a brazilian drug trafficker following the interception of cocaine with an estimated street value of R8.7 million.

The 26-year-old transgender suspect was apprehended upon arrival on… pic.twitter.com/y1n9UMUprZ

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) April 27, 2026

“Police at OR Tambo International Airport have in recent months recorded several successes in intercepting drug traffickers attempting to smuggle narcotics into the country,” she said.

Interception of drug traffickers

Brig. Mathe highlighted that the interception of drug traffickers has significantly contributed to disrupting the supply of illicit drugs, thereby reinforcing the ongoing battle against organised crime.

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The suspect faces drug trafficking charges and is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 28 April.