Crystal meth worth R6 million found hidden in snooker table at OR Tambo International Airport

Crystal meth worth over R6 million was found hidden in a wooden snooker pool table at the OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA), the South African Police Service (SAPS) said. 

A crime intelligence-driven operation led to the discovery and confiscation of the crystal meth, police said, that was found in a wooden snooker pool table set for export at a warehouse at the airport. 

The police were following up on intelligence when they found the drugs that were allegedly destined for Australia, national SAPS spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, said in a statement.

"Police are following all leads to determine the origin of the drugs in SA, as well as who delivered the consignment for export," she said.

"No arrests have been made and investigations continue."

The National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola applauded the vigilance and dedication of various police units stationed at the airport.

“Police at OR Tambo International Airport continue to intercept drug traffickers and large consignment of drugs almost every week, their vigilance and dedication is applauded," Masemola said.

"These drug busts should continue to send a stern warning to all drug traffickers and drug cartels that police are on high alert at Africa’s largest port of entry."

Earlier this month, police at ORTIA have arrested an alleged drug mule who landed in South Africa from São Paulo, Brazil.

At the time, Mathe said: "SAPS crime intelligence was following up on information when the 21-year-old man was intercepted after landing from Brazil just after 12.20pm."

The man was taken to a local hospital where a medical x-ray confirmed the presence of foreign objects in his stomach, according to Mathe. 

“SAPS can confirm that plastic-covered cocaine bullets are being released by the suspect,” said Mathe.

IOL