Third Drug Mule in 3 Weeks: R2m Heroin Found in SA Man’s Luggage at OR Tambo

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has arrested a 52‑year‑old South African man after allegedly discovering suspected heroin worth more than R2 million in his luggage at OR Tambo International Airport.

The arrest followed an intelligence‑led operation on Sunday, September 20, 2026, shortly after the suspect arrived on a flight from Accra, Ghana.

According to SAPS, a search of his luggage uncovered bullet‑like objects and blocks containing substances suspected to be heroin. The seized drugs have an estimated street value of over R2 million, equivalent to about GH¢1.4 million.

This latest arrest brings to three the number of suspected drug mules apprehended at OR Tambo International Airport in the past three weeks.

The suspect is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court later this week on charges related to drug trafficking.

Investigators are working to establish the source of the suspected drugs and whether the suspect is linked to a broader trafficking network.

In a statement posted on Facebook, SAPS said it would continue to intensify intelligence‑driven and targeted operations aimed at dismantling drug‑trafficking syndicates.

“SAPS will continue to intensify intelligence‑led and targeted operations to dismantle drug trafficking syndicates,” the statement added.

— ClassFm