Cape Town – A 70-year-old British drug mule arrested at Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) with 4.1 kg of methamphetamine (Tik) worth over half a million rand is expected to appear in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
The suspect was arrested on Thursday, (6 June 2024), during an operation conducted by the Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau team, in conjunction with border police based at CTIA.
Acting on information, authorities searched and busted the 70-year-old Brit before he could depart South Africa for his home country.
Authorities uncovered about 4.1 kg of methamphetamine (Tik) with a value of approximately R600 000 in a hidden compartment in the man’s suitcase.
The suspect was arrested and detained at Ravensmead SAPS pending further investigation.
Commenting on the arrest, ACSA Regional General Manager, Cluster 2, Mark Maclean, said: “ACSA would like to congratulate the law enforcement agencies involved in this operation and thank them for their ongoing work and dedication to stamping out the smuggling of illicit drugs across our borders.
“We have a zero-tolerance approach to any criminal activity across our airport network in South Africa.
“This unwavering stance is integral to our mission of maintaining the highest safety and security standards.
“Our commitment involves rigorous security measures, continuous monitoring, and close collaboration with law enforcement agencies to prevent and address any threats.
“By prioritising safety and security, we aim to provide a secure and trustworthy environment for everyone who passes through our airports.”
Maclean warns that ACSA views drug trafficking through its airports as an extremely serious offence.
Maclean said ACSA would continue to work with law enforcement agencies to stop any departing or arriving passengers who attempt to take illicit drugs through “our airports”.
“The arrest of this drug mule serves as a warning to potential offenders that they will be apprehended and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
