A 22-year-old British national is expected to face charges after officers of the Customs and Excise Division intercepted nearly TT$6 million worth of marijuana at the Piarco International Airport on Sunday.
The division said the passenger was stopped during routine clearance operations at the airport and referred to the Red Line for a more detailed examination of luggage.
During the search, Customs officers allegedly discovered a quantity of plant-like material concealed inside the passenger’s baggage. Officers attached to the Preventive Branch were contacted and responded to the scene.
According to the release, field tests later confirmed that the substance was marijuana.
The Customs and Excise Division estimated the street value of the seizure at TT$5,996,295.80.
The division did not disclose the exact quantity of marijuana seized or provide further details on the passenger’s intended destination within Trinidad and Tobago.
In the release, Customs said the interception underscored the vigilance of Customs officers and the agency’s ongoing efforts to combat the illegal importation of narcotics through the country’s ports of entry.
The division added that intelligence-led operations and strategic enforcement initiatives continue to play a key role in detecting smuggling attempts and protecting the country’s borders.
The seizure comes amid continued efforts by law enforcement agencies to clamp down on drug trafficking and transnational criminal activity involving airports and seaports across the region.
Customs officials urged members of the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement authorities in efforts to curb illegal activity at the nation’s borders.
The British national remains in custody pending further investigations and the laying of formal charges.
