A dramatic turn of events has unfolded in the R5 million drug trafficking case at OR Tambo International Airport, as two of the five women arrested have been granted bail. Vuyokazi Toko, 43, and Elisa Shikwambana, 45, were released on R15,000 bail each, with strict conditions to report to their nearest police stations at designated intervals.
The case, which has sent shockwaves through the country, began on March 28, 2026, when the five South African women were intercepted before boarding an international flight to China via Dubai. Authorities discovered that the suspects had concealed drugs in various ways on their bodies, including in their sneakers, underwear, and private parts – a method commonly associated with drug mule operations.
Drug Trafficking in South Africa
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the accused were arrested in collaboration with Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) after they were allegedly found concealing drugs with an estimated street value exceeding R5 million on their bodies. Each of the accused faces one count of dealing in drugs, a serious offence that carries significant penalties.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has emphasized the seriousness of drug trafficking offences, particularly at major transit hubs like OR Tambo International Airport. As NPA spokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole noted, the prosecuting authority is committed to tackling organised crime and disrupting international drug syndicates using South Africa’s busiest airport as a transit point.
Investigations Continue
The case against Toko and Shikwambana has been postponed to August 4, 2026, to allow for further investigations. Meanwhile, bail applications for the remaining three accused are expected to be heard later this week. As the investigation unfolds, it is clear that the authorities are taking a firm stance against drug trafficking in South Africa.
Some of the key facts about the case include:
- The estimated street value of the concealed drugs exceeds R5 million.
- The suspects were en route to China via Dubai when they were intercepted.
- The drugs were concealed in various ways on the suspects’ bodies, including in their sneakers, underwear, and private parts.
As the case continues to unfold, it is a stark reminder of the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to disrupt international drug syndicates and prevent the smuggling of illicit substances through South Africa’s major airports.
