66-Year-Old Somalian Arrested at OR Tambo Airport with 55kg of Khat

Johannesburg – The South African Police Service (SAPS), in collaboration with Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), has apprehended two individuals suspected of being drug mules at OR Tambo International Airport.

The arrests on Freedom Day, Monday, 27 April 2026, raise the total number of suspected drug traffickers detained at this international hub to four in just three days.

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk stated on Monday evening that officers stationed at the airport acted upon intelligence regarding individuals suspected of planning to travel to Frankfurt and London via Doha.

“The officers successfully intercepted a 66-year-old Somali national who was allegedly carrying a Netherlands passport,” Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk reported.

“A search of the suspect’s baggage resulted in the discovery of 55 kilograms of khat, with an estimated street value exceeding R100 000.

“On the same day, police uncovered abandoned luggage at the airport containing around 45 kilograms of khat, valued at over R90 000.”

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Lieutenant Colonel Van Wyk also disclosed that in a separate event on Saturday, 25 April 2026, a multidisciplinary team acted on intelligence, leading to the arrest of a 33-year-old South African woman who was allegedly en route to Hong Kong.

“Further investigation revealed drugs estimated to be worth over R500 000, believed to be cocaine and crystal methamphetamine, hidden within her luggage,” the spokesperson noted.

All suspects are anticipated to appear before the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court this week facing drug trafficking-related charges.

Investigations are ongoing.