Durban SAPS officers intercepted a container carrying a large quantity of cocaine at the Durban Harbour on Monday, 2 December 2024.
- SAPS intercepted a container with millions worth of cocaine at Durban Harbour, allegedly smuggled from South America.
- The seizure follows previous interceptions of drugs, including a R100 million meth lab in Gauteng and arrests at OR Tambo International Airport.
- Authorities suspect links to international crime syndicates, including the Mexican cartel, operating in South Africa.
Durban Harbour cocaine seizure: Here’s what we know
The consignment, allegedly originating from South America, was discovered when authorities transported a suspicious container to a nearby warehouse for inspection.
Law enforcement is working to establish the total value of the drugs, with further details expected in an official statement from the Durban SAPS.
The operation comes amid intensified efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks in the region.
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Last week, SAPS uncovered a methamphetamine drug lab in Rietfontein, Gauteng, seizing narcotics worth an estimated R100 million.
A 39-year-old Mexican national was arrested during that raid.
Authorities suspect the lab is connected to a larger syndicate operating both locally and internationally.
In another incident at OR Tambo International Airport, officials apprehended two Brazilian nationals in separate cases last week for attempting to smuggle cocaine.
Both suspects carried the drugs wrapped around their bodies in a manner consistent with smuggling techniques from South America.
Is the Mexican cartel in South Africa?
Recent evidence points to Mexican drug cartels expanding their operations into South Africa, with reports suggesting the involvement of groups like the Sinaloa and Jalisco cartels.
Investigations have revealed their participation in the trafficking of cocaine and synthetic drugs, such as methamphetamine and fentanyl.
In July 2024, South African authorities discovered a large-scale methamphetamine laboratory on a farm in Groblersdal, Limpopo.
The operation resulted in the arrest of four suspects, including two Mexican nationals, and the seizure of drugs valued at approximately R2 billion.
The infiltration of Mexican cartels appears to be part of a larger strategy to dominate drug trafficking routes across Africa.
Leveraging South Africa’s infrastructure and strategic positioning, these groups facilitate the transport of narcotics to international markets, including Europe and Australia.
Reports also highlight concerns over the cartels’ potential to exploit systemic challenges in local law enforcement, such as resource limitations and corruption, making it difficult to combat their influence effectively.
