According to Inspector Shervon Mathieu, Head of the Gang, Narcotics and Firearms Unit (GNFU), the July 18th operation at Shed 6 in Port Castries was launched after a woman attempted to clear a barrel with an authorisation letter.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered ten packages of compressed cannabis concealed within the shipment. The illegal substance weighed 9,980 grams and carries an estimated street value of EC $99,800.00. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Inspector Mathieu says the bust came as part of a broader effort to combat rising trafficking activity through the island’s ports of entry. Mathieu confirmed that the GNFU, in partnership with the Customs and Excise Department, has observed a growing trend of narcotics being smuggled into Saint Lucia through barrels and other cargo.
Just two days prior, on July 17th, a coordinated crime suppression operation was conducted across multiple communities. The effort, led by the GNFU, Special Operations Team, and the Department of Road Safety, involved vehicular checkpoints, stop-and-search exercises, and intelligence-driven sweeps. During a targeted search of a residence in Rose Hill, officers recovered 726 grams of cannabis resin and 50 grams of cannabis, valued at EC $29,540.00.
The suspect, identified as Salim Charles, was arrested and charged with possession of cannabis, possession of cannabis resin with intent to supply, and possession of controlled drugs.
He was taken into custody at the Centralised Community Safety Centre and later granted bail in the sum of EC $32,000, either in cash or with a suitable surety.
During the same operation, law enforcement units were redirected to Black Mallet following a shooting incident involving multiple victims. Police confirmed that all available teams responded swiftly to the unfolding situation and assisted with investigations.
Inspector Mathieu emphasised the RSLPF’s resolve to clamp down on the drug trade: “The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force reiterates its unwavering commitment to disrupting the illegal drug trade. As traffickers attempt to exploit shipping channels and communities, law enforcement will continue to adapt and respond with full force in collaboration with partner agencies.”
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to drug trafficking to law enforcement or via the anonymous 555 hotline.
According to Inspector Shervon Mathieu, Head of the Gang, Narcotics and Firearms Unit (GNFU), the July 18th operation at Shed 6 in Port Castries was launched after a woman attempted to clear a barrel with an authorisation letter.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered ten packages of compressed cannabis concealed within the shipment. The illegal substance weighed 9,980 grams and carries an estimated street value of EC $99,800.00. Investigations into the matter are ongoing.
Inspector Mathieu says the bust came as part of a broader effort to combat rising trafficking activity through the island’s ports of entry. Mathieu confirmed that the GNFU, in partnership with the Customs and Excise Department, has observed a growing trend of narcotics being smuggled into Saint Lucia through barrels and other cargo.
Just two days prior, on July 17th, a coordinated crime suppression operation was conducted across multiple communities. The effort, led by the GNFU, Special Operations Team, and the Department of Road Safety, involved vehicular checkpoints, stop-and-search exercises, and intelligence-driven sweeps. During a targeted search of a residence in Rose Hill, officers recovered 726 grams of cannabis resin and 50 grams of cannabis, valued at EC $29,540.00.
The suspect, identified as Salim Charles, was arrested and charged with possession of cannabis, possession of cannabis resin with intent to supply, and possession of controlled drugs.
He was taken into custody at the Centralised Community Safety Centre and later granted bail in the sum of EC $32,000, either in cash or with a suitable surety.
During the same operation, law enforcement units were redirected to Black Mallet following a shooting incident involving multiple victims. Police confirmed that all available teams responded swiftly to the unfolding situation and assisted with investigations.
Inspector Mathieu emphasised the RSLPF’s resolve to clamp down on the drug trade: “The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force reiterates its unwavering commitment to disrupting the illegal drug trade. As traffickers attempt to exploit shipping channels and communities, law enforcement will continue to adapt and respond with full force in collaboration with partner agencies.”
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to drug trafficking to law enforcement or via the anonymous 555 hotline.
