The South African Revenue Service (SARS) and the Hawks have seized 30 bricks of cocaine at the Port of Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. The seizure comes three days after authorities intercepted approximately 90 kilograms of cocaine concealed in trucks arriving from Brazil at the same harbour. According to SARS, the latest interception forms part of ongoing collaboration with local and international law enforcement agencies aimed at combating illicit trade and transnational organised crime. SARS Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhubu and Acting National Head of the Hawks, Lieutenant
General Sphesihle Nkosi, say a container vessel originating from South America was identified for inspection through intelligence-led risk profiling and targeting methodologies after arriving at the Port of Durban. Customs officials boarded the vessel and located the targeted container, which was positioned below the waterline. During the inspection, officials detected signs that parts of the container apparatus had been tampered with, prompting a more detailed examination. The inspection led to the discovery of concealed narcotics. A mobile testing kit later confirmed the substance to be
30 bricks of pure cocaine. #sapsHAWKS [SARS AND HAWKS DEAL FURTHER BLOW TO DRUG TRAFFICKING WITH COCAINE SEIZURE AT DURBAN PORT] The South African Revenue Service (SARS), working closely with the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation #HAWKS has secured the seizure of 30 bricks of cocaine at the… pic.twitter.com/q8ugFAGAVT — SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) June 9, 2026 SARS says the consignment was identified through intelligence-led profiling and risk assessments conducted by Customs officers. Detector dogs and on-site verification were also used during the operation.
The latest seizure follows another major operation at the Port of Durban in which approximately 90 kilograms of cocaine concealed in trucks arriving from Brazil was intercepted. Authorities say the two incidents point to intensified attempts by organised crime syndicates to move narcotics through South Africa’s trade gateways. Makhubu and Nkosi highlight the importance of coordinated law enforcement efforts in tackling organised crime. “We will pursue those responsible wherever they operate, both locally and across borders, and hold them accountable. Law enforcement is working as
a united front to strengthen our response. Those who traffic drugs into this country will be identified, tracked and brought to book.” SARS says it will continue working with its law enforcement partners to strengthen controls at ports of entry as part of broader efforts to dismantle organised criminal networks, protect legitimate trade and safeguard communities.
SARS, Hawks, Port of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, cocaine seizure, 30 bricks, 90 kilograms, Brazil, South America, customs officers, intelligence-led targeting, organised crime