A Barbadian national was ordered to pay J$600,000, or face 18 months imprisonment, after he attempted to smuggle more than 1.8 kilograms of cocaine into the United Kingdom through the Sangster International Airport.

Kelvin Charles, a 40-year-old carpenter from Bridgetown, Barbados was arrested and charged with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, and attempting to export cocaine.

During his court appearance on Friday, Charles pleaded guilty to the charges. He was sentenced as follows:

• Possession of Cocaine: J$200,000 or six months imprisonment

• Dealing in Cocaine: Discharged

• Attempting to Export Cocaine: J$400,000 or six months imprisonment

He was also given a mandatory six months imprisonment.

According to police reports, Charles was arrested on October 26 at the airport after local authorities found illicit drugs concealed in a false compartment of his luggage during a security check.