Members of the SA Police Service (SAPS) and the Hawks in KwaZulu-Natal have confiscated 200 blocks of cocaine worth R70-million at a Durban habour.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said on Wednesday that an intelligence-driven operation, spearheaded by the SAPS, led to the drug bust.
For a month, police had been monitoring and keeping surveillance on a particular vessel at the harbour, said Mathe, noting that the vessel had sailed from Brazil.
“Prior to the vessel arriving at the Port of Durban, members intercepted the identified vessel and mobilised various units and resources to conduct a search and seize operation on the identified containers,” Mathe said.
“A multidisciplinary operation was conducted and 20-litre paint containers were seized. Inside, police found 200 blocks of cocaine worth R70-million.”
Cele commends investigative work
Mathe said the police’s top brass led by Minister Bheki Cele have commended the meticulous investigative work.
“We will continue to stamp the authority of the state. We are strengthening our response and our strategy in dealing with these syndicates,” Cele said.
In addition, national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola said the safer festive season operations are gaining momentum across the country.
“Well done to the team for intercepting these drugs that were hidden in paint. This is only the beginning of our safer festive operations,” Masemola said.
“Just last week, we confiscated R75-million worth of counterfeit goods in Cape Town. We will continue to intercept these illicit activities throughout the country.
“We are heightening and intensifying our fight against crime, especially organised crime syndicates. This particular investigation will focus on the origin and destination of the drugs to ensure we effect arrests.”
Earlier on Wednesday, a delegation led by Cele visited the family of Warrant Officer Sthembiso Mazibuko who was shot and killed during an operation in Ntuzuma on Tuesday.
Mathe said Mazibuko spent the last 17 years in the police service and was attached to the national intervention unit.
The delegation also visited a police officer who was injured in the same operation. The officer is recovering in the hospital.
“The funeral details of our fallen heroes will be announced in due course,” Mathe said.
