A Nigerian man has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg after he was caught trying to smuggle drugs from Brazil. The man, who said he was a street vendor from Nigeria, had flown from São Paulo and was waiting to board a connecting flight to Nigeria when the incident occurred.
According to police, the man met with an airport cleaner shortly after landing. The suspect then handed over a set of headphones to the cleaner. Working with the Airport Company South Africa (ACSA), customs, and other airport security agencies, police decided to investigate. They opened the headphones and found cocaine hidden inside them.
The police are now investigating the man’s claims that he had traveled to Brazil to buy clothes and shoes for his business back home. Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe explained, “We are looking into this aspect to find out if he is really a street vendor or if this is just a cover for drug trafficking.”
Meanwhile, the cleaner, who escaped when he noticed police approaching, is still being hunted by law enforcement.
National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola emphasized that criminals will not find a haven in South Africa. He stated, “We will track down anyone who tries to commit a crime in this country, no matter where they hide.”
In the last two months, more than R13 million worth of illegal drugs have been seized at OR Tambo International Airport, including R12 million worth of cocaine. Nine drug mules have been arrested during this time, according to Brigadier Mathe.
The arrest serves as a strong reminder of the country’s commitment to cracking down on drug trafficking, particularly at its busiest international airports<<Continue Reading>>>
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