Tertiary student accused of trying to export ganja

A student at the Excelsior Community College was remanded in custody until next Tuesday for allegedly being part of a scheme to traffic more than 100 pounds of compressed ganja overseas.

Garfield Campbell Jr, 22, is charged along with his uncle, Glenroy Campbell, 36, for possession of, dealing in, attempting to traffic ganja and conspiracy to traffic ganja. Glenroy is also charged with being in possession of criminal property and forgery, while Garfield faces an additional charge of being in possession of a part of prohibited weapon that being a magazine.

It is alleged that on November 13, the men were seen in a restricted area at the Norman Manley International Airport, with Glenroy wearing a safety reflection vest. A Honda CR-V was found in the men's possession and when searched, boxes containing sweet potatoes were found. However, with further probing, the dirt that covered the ground provision revealed parcels of compressed vegetable matter resembling ganja. The total weight of the substance is said to be 167 pounds.

During a further search of the car, $200,000 wrapped in paper marked 'security' was found. An identification card was found, bearing Glenroy's photo, signifying that he worked in the cargo section of the airport. Further checks at the airport revealed that the identification card was not provided by the airport and was deemed forged. The men were apprehended and Garfield's residence was searched and a 9mm magazine was found in his dresser.

Yesterday in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court, the investigator shared that when Garfield was cautioned he said that he found the item along the roadway and "me did plan fi sell it but me never bother".

"These allegations are serious," Senior Parish Judge Lori-Anne Cole-Montaque said.

The Crown indicated that it is not opposed to bail in relation to Garfield, but is concerned about Glenroy, as he has no fixed place of abode. The matter was adjourned until November 28, to allow for address verification.

Both men, who are represented by Christopher Townsend, were remanded in custody.

- T.T.