Nigerian Student Arrested in South Africa with Cocaine Worth ₦49m

A 27-year-old Nigerian national has been arrested in Umbilo, a suburb in South Africa, after authorities said he was found in possession of cocaine valued at more than R600,000 (about ₦49 million).

Security operatives carried out the arrest on Monday following the execution of a search warrant. The operation involved the Metro Police Tactical Support Unit, the Metro Police Task Team, and the SAPS KwaZulu-Natal Counter Narcotics Unit.

Officials said the suspect stepped out of his vehicle when officers moved in. A search conducted at the scene reportedly led to the discovery of high-purity cocaine concealed inside a sock. Further inspection of his apartment allegedly uncovered additional narcotics, bringing the estimated total value of the seizure close to R600,000.

According to a report by Prime Time News ZA, the individual entered South Africa on a student visa and is suspected of having links to a previous drug-related case recorded in 2025.

Authorities are treating the arrest as part of a wider investigation into an alleged drug trafficking network believed to involve multiple Nigerian nationals. The network is suspected of participating in the importation, concealment, and distribution of illicit substances across different locations.

Further developments reported by eNCA indicate that financial activity linked to the suspect continued even after his detention. Senior reporter Dasen Thathiah noted that transactions were observed flowing into the suspect’s account while he was already in custody, prompting authorities to escalate the matter to the Asset Forfeiture Unit for additional investigation.

The suspect’s identity has not been disclosed, and inquiries remain ongoing as law enforcement agencies examine possible connections to other individuals and operations linked to the case.