Johannesburg – A 24-year-old Brazilian man and a 51-year-old South African woman have been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport on suspicion of drug trafficking.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk said the arrest of the pair led to the seizure of cocaine valued at more than R1 million.
“The South African Police Service has arrested two suspected drug mules at OR Tambo International Airport, bringing the total number of similar arrests at the airport to five since January 2025,” said Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk.
“A 24-year-old Brazilian man and a 51-year-old South African woman, who had traveled on the same flight from São Paulo, Brazil, were intercepted by police upon their arrival on Thursday, (20 March 2025).”
“A medical examination confirmed that both suspects had ingested ‘bullets’ suspected to contain cocaine.”
Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk said the process of releasing these substances was ongoing, and the final quantity and value of the seized drugs would be determined upon completion.
“In addition, police discovered and confiscated more cocaine concealed inside the suspects’ luggage,” she said.
“Further investigations are underway to establish any potential links between the two individuals.
“Earlier today, (21 March 2025), police also intercepted a shipment of white powder, suspected to be heroin, worth over R200 000.”
Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk said preliminary investigations suggest that the shipment was destined for London, United Kingdom.
