Johannesburg - A 29-year-old woman who allegedly smuggled drugs worth R4.6 million into South Africa appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
Ottilia Mmatjatji Malatji, who is believed to be an extra on local soapies, was arrested on Sunday at the OR Tambo International Airport.
She had arrived from Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates and had gone through the “nothing to declare” exit when she was stopped by customs officials.
Her luggage was searched and 15.4kgs of ephedrine were found and confiscated.
The South African Revenue Service initially said in a statement that she was a local actress, but police later confirmed that she was not a celebrity.
Despite telling officials that she was an actress during the time of her arrest, she appeared in a relatively empty courtroom without any sign of fans or supporters.
There was, however, a sizeable media contingent gathered for her court appearance early on Tuesday.
Sars spokesman Luther Lebone said Malatjie was an extra on several local soapies.
This included SABC's Isidingo and Skeem Saam as well as eTV's Scandal.
The woman, who lives in Ivory Park, appeared before magistrate Vusumuzi Mahlangu.
She will be charged with dealing in drugs.
A formal bail application has been set down for October 7. Until then, she will remain behind bars. - Additionla reporting by Karishma Dipa
ANA