In a significant victory against transnational drug trafficking, the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) has intercepted two cocaine trafficking operations.

The successful operations foiled cocaine being shipped to Thailand at two courier facilities at the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) Cargo Section last Thursday (November 16). During routine customs operations, JCA officers at NMIA discovered and seized an undisclosed quantity of cocaine concealed in a toaster oven destined for the Asian country.

The JCA is reporting that these two foiled shipments highlight the interconnected nature of international drug networks. Given the international reach, the JCA is working closely with local and foreign authorities to investigate the origins and individuals involved in this illicit operation.

Commissioner of Customs Velma Ricketts Walker believes this latest seizure sends a strong message to criminal networks attempting to exploit non-traditional global trade routes.

For her, ”this seizure not only helps to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs but also sends a strong message to criminal enterprises seeking to exploit various routes to traffic illicit drugs.” 

Ricketts-Walker went on to declare, “we continue to remain vigilant and remain committed to effectively combatting the evolving challenges posed by transnational crime and to adopting cutting-edge inspection techniques to disrupt actors who attempt to threaten the nation’s security.” 

Since October 2023, the JCA made ten seizures of cocaine in Customs-controlled areas, signalling the vigilance of its officers. It also credits the results to the significant investments in technology to increase the number of intrusive and non-intrusive inspection operations.

The JCA is the border protection, trade and revenue collection agency within the Government of Jamaica and is charged with the management and protection of the nation’s borders and official ports of entry.