Sneakers worn by the suspects where drugs were discovered concealed during a search at OR Tambo International Airport.
Image: SAPS
Two of the five women arrested in a multimillion-rand drug bust at OR Tambo International Airport have been granted bail, as investigations into the high-profile trafficking case continue.
The Kempton Park Magistrates’ Court on Monday granted bail of R15,000 each to Vuyokazi Toko (43) and Elisa Shikwambana (45), who were arrested last month after allegedly attempting to smuggle drugs worth more than R5 million out of the country.
As part of their bail conditions, the pair must report to their nearest police stations at designated intervals.
The five women were arrested on March 28, 2026, where five South African women were intercepted before boarding an international flight.
Authorities previously revealed that the suspects were en route to China via Dubai when they were stopped.
Police investigations uncovered drugs concealed in various ways on the suspects’ bodies, including in their sneakers, underwear and private parts a method commonly associated with drug mule operations.
“The accused were arrested by the South African Police Service (SAPS), 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,” said NPA apokesperson Magaboke Mohlatlole.
Each of the accused faces one count of dealing in drugs.
The case against Toko and Shikwambana has been postponed to 4 August 2026 to allow for further investigations, while bail applications for the remaining three accused are expected to be heard later this week.
“Bail applications for the remaining accused are scheduled to be heard on April 14 and 1, 2026,” Mohlatlole confirmed.
Reinforcing its stance, the prosecuting authority warned that drug trafficking remains a serious offence, particularly at major transit hubs.
“The NPA emphasises the seriousness of drug trafficking offences and reaffirms its ongoing commitment to tackling organised crime, particularly at South Africa’s key ports of entry,” Mohlatlole said.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to disrupt international drug syndicates using South Africa’s busiest airport as a transit point.
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