Five women suspected of being drug mules were taken into custody on Saturday at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg after police found narcotics worth over R5 million hidden on their bodies.
Authorities reported that the women were stopped before they could board an international flight thought to be going to China via Dubai.
A detailed search by law enforcement uncovered drugs concealed in various places, including their sneakers, underwear, and even internally. Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk confirmed the arrests, noting that the discovery was made following targeted intelligence and standard screening at the airport.
This coordinated effort is part of ongoing actions to combat international drug trafficking networks that use South Africa as a transit hub. The suspects are set to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, facing charges related to drug trafficking. Van Wyk mentioned that investigations are ongoing, with authorities trying to find out if the group is connected to a larger syndicate operating across borders.
Email: motshwari@onenews.co.za
