South Africa Intercepts Cargo Ship, Seizes R56 Million Cocaine Off Durban’s Coast

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has seized cocaine worth an estimated R56 million after intercepting a cargo vessel off the east coast of Durban.

According to SARS, the operation took place on 3 September 2025 as part of an intelligence-led initiative named Operation Irene. A Customs Marine Patrol vessel intercepted a ship near the Fairway Buoy at outer anchorage, around four nautical miles from Durban, before escorting it into the harbour.

Customs enforcement officers boarded the vessel and inspected several containers that had already been identified as high-risk for smuggling before the ship’s arrival.

The officers discovered 25 large bricks of suspected cocaine concealed inside refrigeration units of multiple containers. The narcotics was immediately seized and handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for further safekeeping, investigation, and prosecution.

A field drug test was immediately conducted, and confirmed the substance as cocaine. Authorities said it was of very high quality, making it suitable for dilution and expansion into even larger quantities for illegal distribution.

The consignment was immediately seized and handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for further safekeeping, investigation, and prosecution.

SARS Commissioner Edward Kieswetter praised the enforcement teams for their work in preventing narcotics from entering the country. He said the bust was made possible through collaboration with Brazilian authorities, which showed the importance of cooperation within BRICS nations in combating organised crime.

Reference: SARS

Source: Maritime Shipping News