R13m cocaine bust at Durban Harbour sparks manhunt
According to provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, intelligence suggested that the drugs had been smuggled into South Africa via the busy Durban port.
Police in KwaZulu-Natal have launched a manhunt for suspects following the discovery of cocaine worth an estimated R13 million at the Durban Harbour during an intelligence-driven operation, on Tuesday, May 5.
The significant drug bust comes after earlier seizures in Gauteng in April, which prompted authorities to trace the possible entry point of narcotics into the country.
According to provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, intelligence suggested that the drugs had been smuggled into South Africa via the busy Durban port.
ALSO READ: KZN police arrest five suspects, seize cannabis worth R1, 3 million
“Following the recovery of drugs in Gauteng province in April this year, information indicated that the drugs entered the country through the Durban Harbour. Intelligence was activated, and certain vessels were profiled,” said Col Netshiunda.
The operation, led by members of the Durban Operational Response Services (ORS) and the Serious Organised Crime Investigation (SOCI) unit, resulted in the discovery of 32 blocks of suspected cocaine.
The drugs were cleverly concealed within the air conditioning compartment of a bus that had been shipped from a South American country.
“The buses were destined for the Gauteng province. During the operation, 32 blocks suspected to be cocaine were recovered hidden inside the air conditioning compartment,” Col Netshiunda confirmed.
Authorities believe the shipment forms part of a broader drug trafficking network operating between South America and South Africa, with Durban Harbour being used as a key entry point. Police have since intensified investigations to identify and apprehend those responsible for the shipment, as well as the intended recipients in Gauteng.
ALSO READ: Brothers arrested for drug dealing and firearms possession in Umzinto
“No arrests have been made at this stage, and investigations are ongoing to uncover those behind the shipment and the intended recipients,” Col Netshiunda explained.
He concluded by saying that this latest seizure highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to clamp down on transnational organised crime and prevent illicit drugs from reaching South African communities.
