A 27-year-old Nigerian student has been arrested in South Africa for allegedly possessing cocaine valued at over R600,000 (approximately N49 million).
The suspect was apprehended in Umbilo by a joint team comprising the Metro Police Tactical Support Unit, the Metro Police Task Team, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) KwaZulu-Natal Counter Narcotics Unit.
According to reports, the arrest followed the execution of a search warrant on Monday, during which the suspect was intercepted after stepping out of his vehicle.
Authorities said the suspect, believed to have entered South Africa on a student visa, may also be linked to a prior drug-related case in 2025.
A search conducted at the scene reportedly uncovered high-purity cocaine concealed in a sock, while further checks at his residence led to the discovery of additional narcotics, bringing the total estimated value to nearly R600,000.
The arrest is said to be part of a broader investigation into a suspected drug trafficking network involving Nigerian nationals, with several other suspects already taken into custody.
Providing further insight, eNCA senior reporter Dasen Thathiah revealed that financial transactions continued to occur in the suspect’s account even after his arrest.
“According to his documents, he came to South Africa from Nigeria to study. Even after his arrest, in the presence of police officers, money continued to flow into his account,” he said.
The case has since been referred to the Asset Forfeiture Unit for further investigation as authorities intensify efforts to dismantle the network.
The development comes amid growing concerns over transnational crime involving drug trafficking across parts of Africa.
