Law enforcement officers are determined to deploy intensified interdiction operations to combat the illicit drug trade impacting the country.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force [RSLPF], in collaboration with the Customs and Excise Department, is ramping up its efforts in response to the recent surge in drug trafficking activities at the island’s ports of entry.
A recent joint operation between the Customs and Excise Department and the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit (GNFU) has revealed a significant increase in attempts to import illegal narcotics, often concealed within barrels and other cargo.
This alarming trend has necessitated heightened surveillance and robust joint enforcement operations.
In light of these developments, the RSLPF has implemented the following strategic measures:
July 17 – Multi-Agency Crime Suppression Operation
On July 17th, a coordinated crime suppression operation was executed by the GNFU, Special Operations Team, and the Department of Road Safety. Commencing at 6:00 p.m., this operation involved coordinated patrols, vehicular checkpoints, stop-and-search activities, and intelligence-driven sweeps across multiple communities.
Narcotics Recovery in Rose Hill
A targeted search at the residence of Salim Charles in Rose Hill yielded 726 grams of cannabis resin and 50 grams of cannabis, with an estimated street value of EC $29,540.00.
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 Centralized Community Safety Centre, informed of his rights, and the narcotics were sealed as evidence.
He was later granted bail of EC $32,000, cash or suitable surety.
During this operation, teams were redirected to Black Mallet in response to a shooting incident involving multiple victims. All units mobilized swiftly to manage the situation and provide investigative support.
July 18 – Port Interdiction Seizure
On July 18th, at 3:00 p.m., a joint interdiction operation at Shed 6, Port Castries, involved officers from the GNFU and the Customs and Excise Department. This action was initiated when a female attempted to clear a barrel using an authorization letter.
Upon inspection, ten packages of compressed green plant material were recovered. A field test confirmed the substance as cannabis, weighing 9,980 grams, with an estimated street value of EC $99,800.00.
The case is under active investigation, and the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force will provide updates as developments arise.
The RSLPF reaffirms its unwavering commitment to disrupting the illegal drug trade. As traffickers seek to exploit shipping channels and communities, law enforcement will adapt and respond decisively in collaboration with partner agencies.
Meanwhile, Carnival Monday and Tuesday was not without incident. On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, officers conducting foot patrols during the carnival celebrations observed an individual whose behavior aroused suspicion. The officers intercepted the individual, later identified as thirty-three (33) year-old Chad Louisy. After conducting a thorough search officers recovered controlled substances including 138 grams of cannabis resin, 25 packets of Ecstasy and 3 packets of Molly.
The matter was immediately referred to the Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit (GNFU), which launched a full investigation. Chad Louisy was formally charged with Three (3) counts of Possession of Controlled Drugs : Cannabis resin, Ecstasy, Molly and Three (3) counts of Possession with Intent to Supply relating to the substances.
The matter remains under active investigation. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) says it remains committed to ensuring public safety during high-traffic national events in its ongoing efforts to disrupt illegal drug activity.