Two alleged drug mules arrested at OR Tambo
Police have arrested two suspected drug mules at OR Tambo International Airport and seized cocaine and heroin worth over R1.2 million.
The suspects, a 24-year-old Brazilian man and a 51-year-old South African woman, were intercepted upon arrival on Thursday after traveling on the same flight from São Paulo, Brazil.
Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk says a medical examination confirmed that both suspects had ingested drug bullets suspected to contain cocaine.
"The process of releasing these substances is ongoing, and the final quantity and value of the seized drugs will be determined upon completion," said Van Wyk.
In addition to the ingested drugs, officers discovered more cocaine hidden inside the suspects' luggage.
Van Wyk says further investigations are ongoing to determine any potential links between the two individuals.
“The arrests bring the total number of drug mules apprehended at the airport to five since January.”
Meanwhile, earlier on Friday, police intercepted a shipment of white powder, suspected to be heroin, worth over R200,000.
Preliminary investigations suggest it was destined for London.
Authorities have vowed to continue tightening security at the airport to curb international drug trafficking.
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