Cocaine with an estimated street value of over R85m was discovered in two containers on a vessel in the Port of Ngqura outside Port Elizabeth.
Police spokesperson, Lieutenant-Colonel Katelgo Mogale, said the drugs were discovered on a vessel from Ecuador during an intelligence-driven, multi integrated operation by the Ports of entry team this past weekend.
He said that the containers, which were listed as containing bananas, were removed from the vessel to a depot where they were inspected.
He said while inspecting a rear refrigeration unit, a hidden compartment was discovered.
"Upon removing some of the panelling, the team discovered packages wrapped in brown tape. The panelling was removed and a total of 40 packages, which tested positive for cocaine”.
Mogale said a total of 85 bricks of cocaine with an estimated street value of R85-million were seized.
"High levels of collaboration between stakeholders at the port have once again paid off,” said Mogale.
- African News Agency (ANA)
