Nigerian Student Arrested with N49m Cocaine in South Africa

A 27-year-old Nigerian student was arrested in Umbilo, South Africa, on Monday for allegedly possessing cocaine valued at R600,000 (approximately N49 million). The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, is believed to have entered the country on a student visa and is linked to a previous drug-related case from 2025.

The arrest was executed by the Metro Police Tactical Support Unit and the Metro Police Task Team, with assistance from the SAP KwaZulu Natal Counter Narcotic Unit, following a search warrant. During the operation, the suspect was found with high-purity cocaine concealed in a sock, and subsequent searches uncovered additional narcotics, bringing the total estimated value to nearly R600,000.

This arrest is part of an ongoing investigation into a drug trafficking network believed to involve Nigerian nationals in the importation and distribution of illicit substances. Authorities noted that funds continued to flow into the suspect's account even after the arrest, prompting further investigation by the asset forfeiture unit.