Customs officials from the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Border Control Unit today made yet another considerable contribution towards the countries fight against drug trafficking with the seizure of large quantities of chemicals and that are used in the manufacturing of designer drugs.
The designer drugs are estimated to have a street value of around R50 million. The confiscated chemicals were transported into South Africa on flights from India to OR Tambo International and destined for South Africa.
In total, Customs Dog Unit officials confiscated two drums containing a mixture of ephedrine and cocaine in powder form weighing 20 kilograms and one drum of ecstasy weighing 50 kilograms, with estimated street value of R10 million and R40 million respectively.
While no arrests have been made, the case has been handed over to South African Police Service for further investigation. Today's seizures also follow on the heels of yesterday's R57 million bust at also at ORTIA.
SARS Customs reiterates what we it stressed yesterday that these incidents vindicate the call for greater collaboration with other law enforcement agencies like the South African Police Service to combat the illicit trafficking of narcotics and other illegal goods.
South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs will continue to increase its efforts at all ports of entry and improve its border control contributions to help strengthen the stand against crime and smuggling.
Issued by: South African Revenue Service (SARS)
18 July 2009
Source: South African Revenue Service (http://www.sars.gov.za)
