A 46-year-old man has been arrested at Cape Town International Airport after police discovered more than 50 kilograms of suspected khat concealed inside his luggage, marking one of several recent drug-related arrests across the Western Cape.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), officers from the Border Policing unit made the arrest on Saturday after responding to reports of a suspicious individual inside the airport’s Central Terminal Building.
Police said the suspect was approached at one of the departure counters shortly after midday. After obtaining his consent to conduct a search, officers inspected three suitcases and allegedly uncovered approximately 50.7 kilograms of suspected khat.
The man was immediately arrested on charges related to drug dealing and remains in custody at Ravensmead Police Station. Authorities said the street value of the seized substance has not yet been determined as forensic examinations and the criminal investigation continue.
The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
Airport security targets cross-border drug trafficking
Western Cape Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Luyanda Damoyi said the arrest demonstrates the importance of intelligence-led policing and routine security operations at South Africa’s transport hubs.
He reiterated SAPS’ commitment to disrupting the movement of illegal drugs through airports, border posts and other entry points used by criminal networks.
South Africa’s major international airports play a significant role in national efforts to combat organised crime, with law enforcement agencies regularly intercepting narcotics destined for both domestic and international markets.
Authorities continue to strengthen cooperation between border policing units and other security agencies as part of broader efforts to combat drug trafficking.
Multiple drug arrests across the Western Cape
The airport arrest formed part of a wider series of anti-drug operations carried out across the province.
In Bellville, officers acting on community information arrested a 42-year-old man after allegedly discovering cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, Mandrax tablets and ecstasy tablets during a search of both the suspect and nearby premises.
Elsewhere in Delft, police conducting stop-and-search operations aimed at reducing gang violence and armed robberies arrested a 33-year-old man after allegedly finding four packets containing cocaine.
In another operation in Hanover Park, officers followed information regarding suspected drug dealing in Surburg Walk. A 47-year-old woman was arrested after police allegedly found 50 units of heroin in her possession.
All suspects are expected to appear before the Bellville and Athlone Magistrates’ Courts to face charges relating to the possession or dealing of illegal drugs.
Drug trafficking remains one of South Africa’s major organised crime challenges, with authorities continuing to target supply routes linking border crossings, transport hubs and local distribution networks. Police say intelligence-driven operations, community tip-offs and routine patrols remain essential tools in disrupting the illegal drug trade and improving public safety.
Source: South African Police Service (SAPS)