Five women arrested at OR Tambo Airport with drugs worth over R5 million, bound for China. Picture Credit: Abode Stock
By AIsha Zardad
Gauteng – Five South African women were intercepted at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Saturday, March 28, 2026, carrying over R5 million in drugs destined for overseas.
The arrests followed a joint operation between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and Airports Company South Africa (ACSA).
SAPS spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk said the suspects were intercepted while preparing to board a flight out of the country.
“A preliminary report suggests that the suspects were en route to China via Dubai,” Van Wyk said.
A thorough search revealed the drugs were concealed in multiple ways, including inside sneakers, underwear, and private parts.
“A search led to the discovery of drugs concealed inside their sneakers, underwear, and private parts,” Van Wyk confirmed.
The five women are scheduled to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, facing drug trafficking charges..
Investigations into the matter are ongoing. Authorities say the arrests form part of ongoing operations to crack down on drug trafficking networks exploiting South Africa’s key transport hubs.
