Law enforcement officers in Saint Lucia continue their vigorous efforts to combat illegal activities on the island, particularly targeting the confiscation of illicit drugs.
On Monday, July 6, officers from the Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit, in collaboration with Customs and Excise, executed an operation at Vieux Fort Port.
During this operation, a significant quantity of controlled drugs was recovered from a package hidden within buckets. The haul included five packages of suspected cannabis resin and two packages of suspected cannabis.
Following the investigation, two suspects were arrested: Tony Paul, also known as Abra, of Soufriere, and a female accomplice.
Both were jointly charged with the following offenses:
– Three counts of Importation of Controlled Drugs
– Three counts of Possession of Controlled Drugs with Intent to Supply
– Three counts of Possession of Controlled Drugs
On Thursday, July 9, both individuals appeared before the Second District Court to face the charges.
During the proceedings, Tony Paul pled guilty to all nine offenses. Consequently, the court imposed a fine of EC$200,000, to be paid by December 31, 2026. Should he fail to pay the fine, he will serve six years in prison.
Following Paul’s guilty plea, the prosecution withdrew all charges against the female suspect, leading to her discharge from the case.