Four US cruise passengers arrested in Bermuda for drug possession

Authorities in Bermuda announced Tuesday the arrest of four U.S. cruise ship passengers accused of possessing a significant quantity of illegal drugs, including cannabis and carfentanil — a synthetic opioid reportedly 100 times more potent than fentanyl, commonly used to tranquilize large animals like elephants.

Acting Detective Superintendent Derricka Burns emphasized the seriousness of the seizure, stating, "This seizure may have prevented a potential tragedy."

The suspects were also found with vape pens and suspected THC gummies. Bermuda police reported that security officers aboard a Carnival cruise ship detained the individuals, who were then arrested upon arrival in the British overseas territory in the North Atlantic.

Carnival Cruise Line issued a brief statement affirming its compliance with local laws and regulations and reiterated its zero-tolerance drug policy, warning guests they may face local law enforcement actions.

“We follow a zero-tolerance drug policy,” the company said. “We also advise our guests that they can be personally subject to local law enforcement actions.”

Two of the suspects, Tracy Ann Williams, 45, and Sabrina Lewis, 49, both from Michigan, appeared in the magistrate’s court on charges of importing THC. Williams faces additional charges related to importing cannabis and carfentanil. Neither entered a plea, and both were remanded in custody until their arraignment scheduled for September.