Border Force officers at Manchester Airport made a significant discovery on Wednesday, uncovering eight suitcases packed with a total of 278 packages of cannabis. This seizure marks one of the largest cannabis hauls at the airport in recent years and is estimated to be worth around £1 million.

Charges Against Suspect

A 51-year-old man from Zaragoza, Spain, has been charged with importing class B drugs in connection with the seized cannabis. The National Crime Agency (NCA) revealed that several of the bags containing the illicit substance were checked in under the names of the suspect’s children, who were accompanying him on the trip.

Legal Proceedings

The accused individual is scheduled to appear before Stockport Magistrates on Friday to face charges related to drug importation. According to reports, he arrived at Manchester Airport on Wednesday after flying from Los Angeles, USA, with a layover at London Heathrow.

Enormous Seizure

In total, more than 158 kilograms (348 pounds) of cannabis were confiscated during the operation. If sold in the UK, the seized drugs would have had a street value of approximately £1 million. Authorities are treating this seizure as a significant blow to criminal networks involved in drug smuggling.

Efforts to Combat Drug Trafficking

Charles Lee, a senior investigating officer at the NCA, emphasized the collaborative efforts between the NCA and Border Force to combat drug trafficking. Lee stated, “NCA officers are determined to work with our partners at Border Force to stop drug smuggling and disrupt the criminal networks behind it.”

This latest seizure underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to intercept illicit drugs and prevent them from reaching communities. The case serves as a reminder of the vigilance required to combat drug trafficking and safeguard public safety.