South African authorities have intensified efforts to disrupt drug trafficking through OR Tambo International Airport following the arrest of a 52-year-old South African man allegedly found with suspected heroin worth more than R2 million.
The suspect was arrested on Sunday, September 20, 2026, shortly after arriving at the airport on a flight from Accra, Ghana, in an intelligence-led operation conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS) with support from the Border Management Authority (BMA).
SAPS said a search of the suspect’s luggage uncovered bullet-like objects and blocks containing substances suspected to be heroin. The seized substances are estimated to have a street value exceeding R2 million.
The arrest brings to three the number of suspected drug mules apprehended at OR Tambo International Airport within the past three weeks, highlighting the increased scrutiny of passengers and luggage as authorities step up efforts to disrupt international drug trafficking networks.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court later this week to face drug trafficking-related charges.
Investigators are also working to establish the source of the suspected drugs and determine whether the accused was operating independently or as part of a wider trafficking network.
In a statement posted on Facebook on Sunday, SAPS said it would continue to conduct intelligence-led and targeted operations aimed at dismantling organised drug trafficking syndicates.
The latest arrest comes amid heightened efforts by South African authorities to strengthen controls at major ports of entry and intercept suspected drug consignments entering the country through international routes.
