A 28-year-old Brazilian woman was arrested at Cape Town International Airport on Tuesday, 22 February after she was allegedly caught with cocaine and heroin worth a combined street value of R870 000.
According to reports, the woman was intercepted by an integrated multi-disciplinary operation that includes the Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB) together with Crime Intelligence and Customs division from the South African Revenue Services (SARS).
Hawks spokesperson Zinzi Hani said that officials acted on a tip-off about a suspect travelling from Sao Paulo, Brazil to Cape Town, via Qatar airline.
“Upon searching her luggage, the authorities allegedly found more than 2,7 kg of Cocaine and 200 grams of heroin concealed in her luggage and shoes. She was immediately placed under arrest and the drugs seized for further investigation,” Hani said.
The Acting Provincial Head of the Hawks in the Western Cape, Brigadier Mushavhaduvha Ramovha further praised the joint team for the drug bust success indicating that this is an indication of the capacity and capabilities of the joint security forces to decisively deal with the numerous attempts to use the airport as a thoroughfare for drug smuggling.
Meanwhile, the woman will make her first court appearance in the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on 24 February.
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