Durrant Pate/Contributor

Two farm workers have been arrested and charged following the seizure of 9.6 kilograms (approximately 21 pounds) of cocaine at the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) on Friday, April 10.

The two, Leroy Thomas and Dwight Gardner, were jointly charged on Tuesday, April 14 with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, taking steps to export cocaine and conspiracy to export cocaine by detectives assigned to the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID).

Reports are that both men were at the airport preparing to board a flight to Canada. An operation was conducted by FNID personnel during which anomalies were detected in their luggage. 

A search led to the discovery of 3.6 kilograms of cocaine in Gardner’s luggage and six kilograms of cocaine in Thomas’ luggage. The illicit drug has an estimated street value of JM$5.7 million. Both men are to appear in the Kingston and St. Andrew Parish Court this Wednesday, April 22.

Drug seizure thus far in 2026

Since the start of the year, over 3100 kilograms or more than 6800 pounds of cocaine have been seized across the island, valued at more than JM$ 1.8 billion. Of this amount, Jamaica recorded its largest cocaine seizure worth JM$1.6 billion on March 21 and charged three Colombians.

Director of FNID, Superintendent of Police, Patrae Rowe highlights that the police continue to have heightened vigilance at the ports to intercept the movement of illicit drugs.

According to him, “our teams are highly alert and have intensified their approach to identify and intercept those who attempt to smuggle drugs within and across our borders. Especially those who seek to exploit our agricultural community benefits as a cover for criminal activities. We will continue to work with our partners to dismantle these networks.”