SSR Airport Major Interception: Rs 59 Million Drug Worth Seized

Officers from the Customs Anti-Narcotics Section of the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) made a significant breakthrough when they intercepted a large quantity of drugs valued at Rs 59 million at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (SSR). The operation led to the arrest of two British nationals, a 20-year-old and a 34-year-old, who had arrived in Mauritius on British Airways flight BA2065 from London.

The two passengers were detained as they attempted to exit through the Green Channel at the airport.

When asked to open their luggage, they claimed ignorance of the security codes and stated that they did not possess the keys to their suitcases.

They explained that the bags had been given to them by an acquaintance in London.

However, the officers were not convinced by their explanations and insisted that the men open their bags since the luggage tags clearly bore their names.

Upon inspection, officers discovered 90 packages containing a substance suspected to be drugs.

A preliminary test conducted on-site confirmed the presence of cannabis.

In total, 49.52 kilograms of the substance were confiscated, with an estimated market value of Rs 59.4 million.

Additionally, both individuals were thoroughly searched, but no further suspicious items were found in their possession.

An investigation into the incident has been initiated.

It is noteworthy that since the year start, the MRA Customs has conducted five drug seizures involving British nationals, with a total estimated value of Rs 179,394,000.

Source: Le Mauricien