Customs seize drug find at Long Point Pier

File Photo of cocaine

ST. KITTS, DECEMBER 25, 2010 (Customs PRO) – Customs and Excise Enforcement Officers uncovered and seized stashes of illegal narcotics while conducting a routine search aboard cargo vessel M.V. Imani, which was docked at the Long Point Pier, Nevis on Thursday, December 23.

The officers discovered packages which contained a white powdery substance which has been identified as cocaine and vegetable matter which has been identified as compressed marijuana. Both the substance and vegetable matter were found in packaging that was taped under furniture in the crew quarters.

The captain of the vessel and one crew member were detained and questioned. The crew member subsequently claimed the packages to be his. As a result the crew member, a resident of Sandy Point, St. Kitts, has been formally charged with two counts under the Customs Act for the unlawful importation of prohibited or restricted goods with fraudulent intent to evade Customs.

The penalty upon conviction is a fine of at least $50,000.00 and/or five year imprisonment.

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force are also expected to press charges under the Drug Enforcement Act.

The combine estimated street value of this find is rated at over $175,000.00 (XCD). The matter is undergoing further investigated.

The Management of the Customs and Excise Department commends the Enforcement Officers for their diligence shown in this situation.