Cocaine, US dollars seized at airport
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has seized 197kg cocaine and approximately R7 million in US dollars in two separate incidents at O.R. Tambo International Airport.
SARS spokesperson Sandile Memela says detector dogs intercepted 197kg of cocaine disguised as shampoo en route from Sao Paolo, Brazil in transit to Australia on Monday.
"Three narcotic detector dogs searched the shipment and the positive indication by the dogs led to a physical examination of the consignment," says Memela.
The narcotics were handed over to the Hawks for further investigations and safe-keeping.
Memela says officials also intercepted a male traveller from Beira, in transit to Dubai, carrying $501 332.00 (approximately R6 717 848.00) on 5 July.
"The incident happened when the traveller, who claimed to be a businessman, failed to declare excess currency in his possession," says Memela.
Memela says his carry-on luggage was searched and officials discovered the currency in varying denominations.
The man was subsequently arrested.