Cannabis found in rum boxes

BORDER officials have uncovered a plot to smuggle £62,000 worth of cannabis into the country through Manchester Airport.

A 26-year-old painter and decorator was remanded in custody on Friday after being charged along with a 30-year-old pub cleaner for the attempted illegal importation of around 21.4 kilos of cannabis.

Kris Carroll (26), of Willesden, London, was charged on Thursday with being knowingly concerned in the importation of a controlled drug.

He was travelling on a flight from Montego Bay, Jamaica, with Zoe Anderson (30), of Neasden, London, who was charged with the same offence but granted conditional bail.

Officers from the UK Border Agency searched passenger baggage and discovered the drugs concealed within rum boxes. The operation was then passed to HM Revenue & Customs.

The pair appeared at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Friday but have yet to enter a plea. The case was adjourned until September 25.

Colin Brown, assistant director of the UKBA’s northern region, said: “This is another excellent result and an example of the continued vigilance and skills of our staff.”

Mike O’Grady, of criminal investigations North-West, said: “Working with our colleagues in the UKBA and the Revenue and Customs Prosecutions Office (RCPO), we will take every action to detect, seize and bring those smuggling drugs into the country before the courts.

“We strongly encourage anyone with information relating to smuggled goods to contact the customs hotline on 0800 59 5000.”