Authorities seize 30 bricks of pure cocaine at Durban harbour
Intelligence-led risk profiling identified a container vessel arriving from South America for inspection upon its arrival in Durban.
A joint operation by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has resulted in the seizure of 30 bricks of pure cocaine at the Port of Durban, dealing another blow to drug trafficking networks using South Africa’s trade routes.
The latest interception, which took place on Tuesday, comes just three days after authorities seized approximately 90 kg of cocaine concealed in trucks that had arrived from Brazil through the same port.
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According to SARS, intelligence-led risk profiling identified a container vessel arriving from South America for inspection upon its arrival in Durban.
Customs officials boarded the vessel and located a targeted container positioned below the waterline.
During the inspection, officials noticed signs that parts of the container apparatus had been tampered with, prompting a more intrusive search.
The inspection led to the discovery of concealed narcotics, with a mobile testing kit confirming the substance to be 30 bricks of pure cocaine.
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Detector dogs and targeted inspections assisted in uncovering the drugs.
SARS Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhubu and Hawks acting national head Lieutenant General Sphesihle Nkosi said the seizure demonstrated the value of co-operation between law enforcement agencies.
“This is what it means to act as one government. SARS and the Hawks are co-operating seamlessly, with one agency acting on intelligence and handing over to the other as part of a single value chain,” said Makhubu.
These interceptions demonstrate that we are disrupting and closing down the space for criminal networks to operate. We are strengthening monitoring at our ports through improved cargo profiling and targeted inspections. Our message is clear: South Africa’s borders are not open to illicit trade.
He warned that drug trafficking continues to have devastating consequences for communities.
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“Drugs are destroying families, communities and the country as a whole. This is not a localised problem; it cuts across every sector of society. We will continue to work with our partners to dismantle these networks and protect our economy and our people,” he said.
Nkosi said the latest seizure highlighted the effectiveness of co-ordinated law enforcement efforts.
“These successes are the result of disciplined co-operation. When we pool our capabilities, we are better able to detect, intercept and investigate complex criminal operations,” Nkosi said.
Drug trafficking is not only a law enforcement issue; it is a national threat. It fuels violence, weakens communities and harms our children.
“We will pursue those responsible wherever they operate, both locally and across borders, and hold them accountable. Law enforcement is working as a united front to strengthen our response. Those who traffic drugs into this country will be identified, tracked and brought to book.”
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SARS said the recent interceptions form part of a broader strategy to strengthen controls at ports of entry, dismantle organised criminal networks and protect legitimate trade.
No arrests have been announced in connection with the latest seizure.
