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Cocaine worth R13 million seized in Durban: Police hunt for suspects

Sunday Tribune Reporter|Published

Cocaine valued at about R13 million was seized during an intelligence-driven operation in Durban

Image: Supplied

Police in KwaZulu-Natal have launched a manhunt for suspects after cocaine valued at approximately R13 million was seized during an intelligence-driven operation at Durban Harbour on Tuesday.

The operation follows a separate drug recovery in Gauteng in April, which led authorities to believe that narcotics were being trafficked into the country via Durban’s port.

Acting on this intelligence, law enforcement officials profiled several vessels entering the harbour.

During the coordinated operation, officers from the Durban Operational Response Services (ORS) and the Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) unit uncovered 32 blocks of suspected cocaine.

Drugs from a south American country were hidden in the air conditioning compartment of a bus that was shipped to Durban harbour

Image: Supplied

The drugs were hidden in the air conditioning compartment of a bus that had been shipped from a South American country and was en route to Gauteng.

Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the shipment and to determine its intended recipients.

Police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said efforts are underway to track down the suspects linked to the drug trafficking operation.

SUNDAY TRIBUNE