HAWKS seize R16 million cocaine staffed in container at Durban Habour

The Hawks in KwaZulu-Natal have seized cocaine in a hidden compartment in an imported container at the Durban Harbour.

HAWKS spokesperson Captain Simphiwe Mhlongo said that the contraband was shipped from Brazil, South America.

Captain Mhlongo said the bust was made in a joint operation by the Durban Serious Organised Crime Investigation, Crime Intelligence and SARS Tactical Intervention Unit (TIU) seized cocaine coming from Brazil.

The potential street value of the drugs is around R16 million.

“On Monday, 04 May 2020, members conducted a covert inspection after they received information of a container loaded with drugs inside a vessel from South America.

“The inter-agency teams worked together and ensured that the targeted container was identified and upon opening it was found that there were other contents. While inspecting the container, a hidden compartment was discovered.,” said Captain Mhlongo.

Upon removing some of the panelling, the team discovered wrapped packages. The panelling was removed and a total of 32 cocaine bricks weighing approximately 1.1 kilograms, were discovered inside the hidden compartment.

Captain Mhlongo added that the street value of the seized drugs is approximately R16 million as per current coronavirus embargo however the seized cocaine, once diluted and mixed with other harmful substances, would have increased considerably in value in the streets.

“No arrests had been made at this stage and investigations are continuing,” he said.