JOHANNESBURG — A Dutch national has been arrested at OR Tambo International Airport after police intercepted a massive shipment of Khat hidden in his luggage.

The arrest took place this week during an intelligence-driven operation conducted by the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Authorities reported that the suspect was preparing to board a flight to Frankfurt, Germany, when law enforcement officers intercepted him. Upon searching his baggage, police discovered and seized more than 40 kilograms of Khat, carrying an estimated street value of R240,000.

The suspect remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in the Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 25 May 2026, where he will face formal charges of drug trafficking.

SAPS management stated that this latest bust reflects intensified national efforts to dismantle transnational organised crime syndicates and curb the flow of illegal narcotics through South Africa’s ports of entry.

This arrest marks a significant milestone for airport security, bringing the total number of drug mules intercepted at OR Tambo International Airport to more than 50 over the past two years.