In an intensive operation conducted on Thursday, law enforcement officials seized approximately 10.35 kilograms of suspected cannabis resin valued at EC $68,100 at the Vieux Fort Port.
According to the police, this aggressive drug interdiction reflects the unit’s steadfast commitment to combating criminal activity on the island.
During the operation, officers from the Southern Detachment of the Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit, along with the K9 Unit, uncovered cannabis resin concealed within imported food products.
This successful initiative followed two weeks of meticulous surveillance executed in collaboration with Customs and Excise South, the Saint Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority (SLASPA), and the Scenes of Crime Unit South.
On Thursday, May 29, a suspicious package from New York City was flagged during routine inspections after being repeatedly detected by the K9 Unit.
When officers opened the package at a secure port facility, they discovered strong indications of narcotics concealed within a large cardboard box filled with assorted food and household items.
Further investigation revealed that five food containers had been tampered with. Inside, twenty-five vacuum-sealed black plastic packages containing a substance suspected to be cannabis resin were recovered, expertly hidden among familiar grocery products.
While the intended recipient of the package has not been located and no arrests have been made at this time, police have identified multiple persons of interest and are actively pursuing several leads.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) is committed to collaborating closely with SLASPA and Customs to advance this investigation.
Police Commissioner Verne Garde commended all units and officers involved in this high-impact operation, highlighting their dedication, vigilance, and professionalism that exemplify the core values of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force.
The RSLPF emphasizes that such operations not only disrupt the flow of illegal drugs and firearms into local communities but also deliver a clear message to those who threaten public safety through criminal enterprise.
The RSLPF adds, “We remain resolute in our fight against transnational crime, partnering with the public, local agencies, and international partners to ensure the safety and well-being of all Saint Lucians.
“We will employ every available resource and intelligence-led strategy to bring offenders to justice and uphold the rule of law.”