A Jamaica-born British woman is facing charges following the discovery of cocaine concealed within powdered milk packets during an attempt to board a flight bound for London.
Mitzie Graham, a 53-year-old health care assistant, has been remanded until March 6, awaiting a bail application by her attorney.
She is charged with possession of, dealing in, and taking steps to export cocaine.
Airport check-in leads to cocaine charges
Reports are that on January 17, around 5 p.m., Graham checked in at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica, with plans to board a flight destined for London.
Cocaine concealed in “Lasco” packets
During security screening, 4.8 kilograms of cocaine was discovered concealed in nine large packages of “Lasco” in her suitcase.
The estimated street value of this illicit cargo is an eye-catching US$144,000, equivalent to nearly J$21 million.
Cocaine smuggling scheme
Reports are that Graham’s attorney, Orville Morgan, revealed that it was his client who voluntarily informed the police officers that she was transporting the milk product on behalf of a friend named ‘Munchie.’
Reportedly, ‘Munchie’ had requested Graham collect the packages.
Reports are that the woman told the police about the items after they enquired about the ownership of the contents in her luggage.
It is further reported that following Graham’s arrest, protesters gathered in front of Munchie’s home in London, calling for her to hand herself over to the police.
Bail application
During the recent court appearance on Friday, Morgan expressed his intent to seek bail for his client during the upcoming court date.
Graham was subsequently remanded.
