A 30-year-old Namibian woman was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, South Africa, marking the tenth drug mule apprehended at the airport in just two months.
Acting on intelligence, a multidisciplinary team from the South African Police Service (SAPS), South African Revenue Service (SARS) customs, and immigration intercepted the woman as she arrived from São Paulo.
Upon arresting her, the team took her to a local hospital for a medical examination. An X-ray revealed foreign objects in her stomach, prompting further investigation. The woman has since expelled over 60 packets of suspected cocaine, with the extraction process ongoing.
General Fannie Masemola, National Commissioner of SAPS, praised the team’s vigilance and efforts to combat transnational organized crime. “South Africa is not a playground for criminals,” he emphasized. “We’re squeezing their space and leaving nothing to chance.”
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The arrest highlights the effectiveness of collaborative law enforcement efforts at OR Tambo International Airport. In the past two months, nine other drug mules have been apprehended, demonstrating the airport’s vulnerability to narcotics trafficking.
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The investigation continues, authorities have yet to determine the total value of the seized drugs. The Namibian woman remains under police guard.
This successful operation underscores South Africa’s commitment to combating illicit activities and protecting its borders. Law enforcement agencies will likely continue to monitor the airport closely to disrupt further smuggling attempts.
The incident also raises awareness about the risks of drug trafficking and the importance of stringent security measures at international airports. The collaboration between SAPS, SARS, and immigration demonstrates a united front against transnational organized crime.
With the extracted substances still being analyzed, the case is ongoing. The woman’s arrest serves as a deterrent to potential drug traffickers and reinforces South Africa’s stance against criminal activity.
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