The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested a 55-year-old Nigerian man on suspicion of drug trafficking shortly after his arrival at OR Tambo International Airport from São Paulo, Brazil.
SAPS spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Amanda Van Wyk, stated in a press release on Tuesday that the suspect was taken into custody after authorities found he had allegedly ingested cocaine capsules worth approximately R7.5 million.
“The suspect had just landed from São Paulo, Brazil when he was intercepted by police. A medical X-ray revealed that he had swallowed multiple objects suspected to be capsules containing cocaine,” said Van Wyk.
She also mentioned that the suspect is still in the process of expelling the swallowed capsules.
Law enforcement officials are closely monitoring the situation as the investigation continues. The suspect is expected to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court soon, where he will face charges related to drug smuggling.
