R70 million drug bust at Durban Harbour

DURBAN – An intelligence driven operation led by members of the SAPS Durban Harbour and members of the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) in KwaZulu-Natal has led to a drug bust of cocaine worth R70 million. For the past month, SAPS Durban harbour members have been monitoring and keeping surveillance on a vessel that was making its way to South Africa 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. Today, a multidisciplinary operation was conducted and 20 litre paint containers were seized. Inside, police found 200 blocks of cocaine worth R70 million. The management of the SAPS, led by the Minister of Police, General Bheki Cele commended the meticulous investigative work at play. “We will continue to stamp the authority of the state, we are strengthening our response and our strategy in dealing with these syndicates”, said Minister Cele. The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola says the National Safer Festive Season Operations are gaining momentum.