27 foreign nationals arrested so far over dangerous drugs

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is reporting that 27 foreign nationals were arrested between January and September for breaches of the Dangerous Drugs Act.

The JCF says the arrests were made by the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division and happened at locations such as at the island's airports.

“The successful interception of these foreign nationals sends a strong message that Jamaica will not tolerate drug trafficking,” the JCF said.

One of the latest arrests happened on Monday, September 30 when a 54-year-old British man was taken into custody at the Sangster airport over the discovery of a white powdery substance resembling cocaine hidden in false compartments in two pairs of slippers in his luggage.

The police say investigations are ongoing and charges will be laid against the man.

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They noted that this latest seizure follows the August 16 arrest of two British nationals at the same airport.

The duo was reportedly found with 14 pounds of cocaine concealed in packages disguised as porridge mixes and coffee.

The police say the swift action that led to the arrest of persons demonstrates the effectiveness of the JCF in disrupting illicit drug trafficking and highlights the crucial work of the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division in combating illicit drug trade and securing the nation's borders.