Farm workers allegedly caught leaving Jamaica with cocaine

Two farm workers are to appear in court on Wednesday following the seizure of 9.6 kilograms of cocaine at the Norman Manley International Airport on April 10.

The accused have been identified as Leroy Thomas and Dwight Gardner.

Reports are that both men were at the airport preparing to board a flight to Canada when an operation was conducted by detectives assigned to the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID) during which anomalies were detected in their luggage.

The police say a search led to the discovery of 3.6 kilograms of cocaine in Gardner's luggage and six kilograms of cocaine in Thomas’ luggage. The illicit drug has an estimated street value of $5.7 million.

Thomas and Gardner were jointly charged on April 14, with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, taking steps preparatory to export cocaine and conspiracy to export cocaine.

The police say since the start of the year, over 3100 kilograms or more than 6800 pounds of cocaine have been seized across the island, valued at more than $1.8 billion. Of this amount, Jamaica recorded its largest cocaine seizure worth $1.6 billion on March 21 and three Colombians were charged.

Director of FNID, Superintendent of Police Patrae Rowe, said the police continue to have heightened vigilance at the ports to intercept the movement of illicit drugs.

“Our teams are highly alert and have intensified their approach to identify and intercept those who attempt to smuggle drugs within and across our borders. Especially those who seek to exploit our agricultural community benefits as a cover for criminal activities. We will continue to work with our partners to dismantle these networks,” said Superintendent Rowe.

Thomas and Gardner are to appear in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court.

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