OR Tambo International Airport recent R200 million drug bust raises concern

The South African Police Service (SAPS) seized around R200 million worth of raw cocaine at the OR Tambo International Airport yesterday afternoon, 25 October 2026, reporting that the drugs landed at the airport on a flight from Sao Paolo, Brazil.

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The recent bust has raised concerns about the country’s security measures meant to prevent international organised crime.

SAPS addresses the airport drug bust

According to SABC News, National Police Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe stated that they are yet to find the suspects who are linked to transporting the drugs.

“We can confirm that we have seized 216 blocks of cocaine. We already confirmed that they are cocaine. We had our forensic science laboratory experts who were on the scene and already tested what was in the wrapped packages, and they confirmed it tested positive for cocaine. So, what you see is worth an estimated value of more than R200 million,” says Mathe.

This has raised concerns, as this recent drug bust forms part of a string of frequent drug busts at the airport.

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String of busts

According to the police spokesperson, there have been 116 drug busts in the past 24 months. In light of this, Democratic Alliance (DA) representatives have shared concerns about the frequent busts. DA spokesperson Lisa Schickerling shared sentiments that highlight the significance of preventing crime rather than having a reactive attitude.

“We must certainly distinguish between successfully intercepting the drugs and understanding the full network. South Africa must not become a convenient transport point for international organised crime, which we see happening and growing in our country on a daily basis.

“Our authorities must work together to close vulnerabilities while ensuring that legitimate travellers and businesses are not unnecessarily disrupted,” she explained.

The party still commends the police and border patrol for the success of the drug bust. However, it still stresses the importance of implementing preventative measures.

“We need proper crime intelligence. We must make sure that we know where these drugs are coming from. Arresting a drug mule may disrupt one shipment, but it does not necessarily dismantle the organisation behind it, and that’s the concern we have.”

Featured image: X/@TheTruthPanther

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