Drug bust triggers financial probe

A drug bust in Vieux Fort has triggered a parallel financial investigation, as authorities pursue possible money laundering and asset forfeiture linked to the intercepted shipment.

The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF), with assistance from the Financial Intelligence Authority, is probing the financial aspects of the case that emerged from an operation conducted by the RSLPF’s Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit last Friday.

According to a police statement issued on Monday, lawmen were acting on specific intelligence regarding “a suspicious package” arriving at the port.

“The package was retrieved from the cargo shed and later intercepted during a coordinated police response in the southern town,” the RSLPF said. “Upon examination, the package was found to contain four kilogrammes of compressed cannabis and two kilogrammes of cannabis resin, carefully concealed within everyday household items.”

Two individuals were subsequently arrested – Andrina Epiphane and Shaquille Walker.

Over the weekend, they were formally charged with: possession of cannabis, possession of cannabis resin, possession with intent to supply cannabis, possession with intent to supply cannabis resin, and importation of controlled drugs.

No other details about the duo or the packages were provided.

“A parallel financial investigation has also been launched, with assistance from the Financial Intelligence Authority, to explore possible money laundering and to initiate asset forfeiture proceedings against the vehicles involved,” the RSLPF disclosed.

“The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance on drug trafficking and continues to pursue those engaged in undermining the country’s security and public institutions.”