Two Jamaican gov't employees arrested after J$5.4M cocaine seizure at Sangster Airport

Detectives assigned to the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID) have arrested two senior government employees following the seizure of more than $5 million worth of cocaine at the Sangster International Airport in St James.

The suspects, a man and a woman, were intercepted around midday on Friday by port security and FNID personnel at a security checkpoint while attempting to board a flight bound for New York. Their identities are being withheld pending further investigations.

According to police, a search of their luggage revealed several false compartments containing rectangular packages of cocaine weighing approximately 9.25 kilograms. The illicit drugs have an estimated street value of $5.4 million. Officers also recovered a quantity of cash in United States currency from a handbag during the search.

Following the airport arrests, FNID personnel carried out follow-up operations at the residences of both suspects. During those searches, investigators reportedly seized a Glock 19 pistol, 13 rounds of ammunition and approximately one ounce of cocaine.

Police also disclosed that one of the suspects informed investigators that he had ingested more than 70 pellets of cocaine. He was subsequently admitted to a medical facility, where he remains under police guard.

Director of FNID, Superintendent Patrae Rowe, said the operation reflects intensified efforts by the Jamaica Constabulary Force to disrupt the illegal firearms and narcotics trade.

“This operation underscores the intensified investigations by the Jamaica Constabulary Force to maintain the integrity of our borders and hold all individuals accountable, regardless of their professional standing or social status,” Rowe said. “We are continuing our mission to further dismantle the networks that facilitate the trafficking of illicit drugs and firearms.”

Investigations into the seizure and the wider trafficking network are ongoing.