Police at OR Tambo International Airport have arrested a Netherlands national after 60kg of khat was allegedly found
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Police at OR Tambo International Airport have arrested a Netherlands national after 60kg of stimulant drug khat was allegedly found concealed in his luggage during a search on Sunday morning.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the suspect was intercepted during an operation as he prepared to board a flight to London.
She said the discovery was made after officers searched the suspect’s luggage, where the khat was reportedly concealed.
"In the latest drug bust, police intercepted a Netherlands national with 60kg of KHAT concealed in his luggage. The drug trafficker was set to take-off to London on Sunday morning when he was intercepted at the Airport," Mathe said.
"His luggage was inspected, and 60kg of khat was found concealed inside."
Mathe added that the suspected mule is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate's Court this week on charges relating to drug trafficking.
"The latest arrests demonstrates the vigilance and heightened operations by SAPS working closely with ACSA security, BMA officials, SARS customs at ports of entry," she added.
"The back-to-back successes in intercepting drug traffickers underscore the country's firm stance against transnational organised crime and law enforcement’s commitment to safeguarding South Africa’s borders.
"SAPS will continue to intensify its efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks and ensure that those involved face the full might of the law.".
The arrest comes less than 24 hours after police at the same airport detained a Brazilian national who was allegedly found in possession of cocaine worth an estimated R8.7 million.
IOL previously reported that Mathe said the 26-year-old suspect was arrested on Sunday following intelligence-led operations.
"The 26-year-old transgender suspect was apprehended upon arrival on Sunday afternoon from Brazil after police, acting on intelligence, conducted a search of the suspects luggage," Mathe said.
"During the search, members discovered multiple blocks of cocaine wrapped and concealed inside his luggage".
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