South African police arrest passenger with suspected heroin after Accra flight

South African authorities have arrested a 52-year-old man at OR Tambo International Airport after suspected heroin valued at more than R2 million was allegedly found in his luggage.

The South African Police Service (SAPS), working with the Border Management Authority (BMA), made the arrest on Sunday, September 20, 2026, following an intelligence-led operation at the airport.

The suspect, a South African national, had reportedly arrived on a flight from Accra, Ghana, when authorities conducted a search of his luggage.

According to SAPS, officers discovered bullet-like objects and blocks containing substances suspected to be heroin. The seized substance is estimated to have a street value exceeding R2 million.

The arrest is the third involving an alleged drug mule at OR Tambo International Airport within the past 3 weeks, as South African authorities intensify efforts to disrupt suspected drug trafficking networks.

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

Investigators are continuing to trace the source of the suspected narcotics and establish whether the accused was acting on behalf of a larger trafficking network.

In a statement posted on Facebook on Sunday, SAPS said intelligence-led and targeted operations would continue as part of efforts to dismantle drug trafficking syndicates.

“The suspect is expected to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court later this week to face drug trafficking-related charges, while investigations remain ongoing,” the statement said.

The latest arrest comes as authorities increase scrutiny of international drug trafficking routes involving South Africa and other countries, with enhanced checks and intelligence operations being conducted at major points of entry.