Authorities in the UK have successfully dismantled a drug smuggling operation that concealed £10 million worth of cocaine within banana boxes. The illicit cargo, originating from the Dominican Republic, was intercepted in two separate shipments at Portsmouth International Port on January 20 and 26.
The UK Border Force officers detected the cocaine hidden within the cardboard packaging of the fruit boxes. The Metropolitan Police Specialist Crime officers then took over the investigation, leading to a raid on an address in Acton, West London, and the arrest of three men.
“Our officers are relentlessly working to curb the crimes that severely impact Londoners. We understand that drugs result in anti-social behaviour, violence, and severe addiction issues. The Met will persist in targeting those who import drugs to London illegally," commented Detective Chief Inspector Lewis Sanderson.
He added that the drugs were likely destined for distribution across London and possibly further. The collaboration between different agencies is crucial in dismantling such large-scale drug networks that exploit vulnerable individuals and spread misery.
The three suspects were arrested under suspicion of cocaine importation and are currently in custody.
Source: standard.co.uk