Latest news and updates
Nigerian man charged in drugs bust
08 July 2009
A 47 year old man was charged on Sunday evening, 5 July 2009, with attempting to smuggle around half a kilo of cocaine into the United Kingdom, through Birmingham International Airport, as part of an investigation by HM Revenue & Customs.
Officers from the UK Border Agency (UKBA) detected the drugs when the American national passport holder, of Nigerian origin, arrived on a flight on Sunday afternoon from South America via Istanbul.
Officers discovered the drugs following a search of luggage. The cocaine has a value of around £25,000 - although this would likely have doubled or trebled once 'cut' by drug dealers.
Dawn Cartwright, Senior investigation officer for HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), said:
'This is another excellent result and sends out a clear message that regional airports like Birmingham are not a soft touch for drug smuggling. We will continue to work with our partners in the UK Border Agency to tackle smugglers who attempt to bring these dangerous drugs into the UK. These hauls demonstrate our continuing efforts to do everything we can to reduce the devastating effects of drugs in our communities. This is a serious offence and we would strongly encourage anyone with information relating to smuggled goods to contact the Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000 or email customs.hotline@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk.'
Stanley Nwanne Igbokaeze (DOB 30 09 61) was charged under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, contrary to the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979. He was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Solihull Magistrates Court of 14 July 2009.