A 27-year-old Nigerian national was arrested in Umbilo, KwaZulu-Natal, after being found in possession of cocaine worth more than half a million rand (N49 million).

The suspect, whose identity has not been revealed, is thought to have entered the country on a student visa and may be linked to a previous drug-related case from 2025.

Members of the Metro Police Tactical Support Unit, Metro Police Task Team, and SAPS KZN Counter Narcotics apprehended the suspect as he exited his vehicle on Monday, March 16.

According to Prime Time News ZA, the suspect was discovered with high-purity cocaine concealed in a sock.

A follow-up search of the suspect’s flat led to the discovery of additional drugs, bringing the total estimated value of the seized cocaine to close to R600,000.

Authorities also revealed that the same suspect was previously arrested in 2025 after being found with cocaine valued at over R400,000.

This latest arrest forms part of an ongoing investigation into a major drug trafficking syndicate with alleged Nigerian links, involved in the trafficking, manufacturing, storage, and distribution of narcotics.

Further details provided by eNCA senior reporter, Dasen Thathiah, revealed that the suspect entered the country on a student visa.

“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.

He added that the matter had been referred to the Asset Forfeiture Unit for further investigation.

Several other suspects have already been arrested in connection with the drug network, and investigations remain ongoing.