MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica – A 40-year-old Barbadian was convicted for breaches under the Dangerous Drugs Act on Friday, November 17, 2023, for attempting to smuggle over 1.8 kilograms of cocaine into the United Kingdom through the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St James.

Kelvin Charles, a carpenter from Bridgetown, Barbados was arrested on Thursday, October 26, after customs officers allegedly discovered the illicit drug concealed in false compartments of his luggage during security screening procedures.

He was subsequently charged with possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, and attempting to export cocaine.

During his appearance before the St James Parish Court on Friday, November 17, Charles pleaded guilty to all charges and was sentenced as follows:

· Possession of cocaine: $200,000 or six months imprisonment

· Attempting to export cocaine: 400,000 or six months imprisonment

· Mandatory imprisonment: Six months

He was ordered to pay the fines immediately.

Failure to do so will see Charles serving a total of 18 months imprisonment.