Pretoria, 8 June 2019 – The South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs officers intercepted a 74 year old wheelchair bound female traveller with almost R500 000 worth of heroin – neatly concealed in false compartments in her handbag at OR Tambo International Airport on Thursday, 6 June 2019.

The traveller was destined for a Central European country at the time of the interception. Upon physical inspection of her hand luggage, a powdery substance was discovered. A drug test was administered, and the contents tested positive for heroin.

Customs registered a criminal case at the local police station for drug possession and attempted smuggling. The suspect was then arrested, pending a court appearance on the charges.

SARS Customs remains appreciative of the constructive collaboration between its officers, South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Intelligence and other law enforcement agencies at ORTIA, which continues to yield positive results in the fight against drug smuggling, said Customs Executive: Mohamed Ally.

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