In a coordinated operation on Wednesday, 8 October 2025, law enforcement authorities arrested a 69-year-old suspected drug mule at Cape Town International Airport. The suspect was found in possession of 183 bushes of khat, with an estimated street value of over R10,000, concealed within his suitcase.
The successful interception was the result of a multi-disciplinary effort based on precise intelligence. The operation involved members from the Hawks’ South African Narcotics Enforcement Bureau (SANEB) team from Bellville, the Border Police Cape Town International Airport Anti-Smuggling Team, Crime Intelligence from Gauteng, SARS Customs at Cape Town International Airport, and the Border Management Authority.
Authorities report that the suspect was intercepted while attempting to export the consignment of khat out of South Africa, with his destination being the United Arab Emirates.
The 69-year-old man has been charged with drug-related offenses and is scheduled to make his first appearance before the Bellville Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 10 October 2025.
