Tourist fined $1.2 million for cocaine

A British citizen has been fined $1.2 million for breaches of the Dangerous Drugs Act after being caught with 3 1/2 lbs of cocaine.

Faina Rwenhamo, a 25-year-old health care assistant from Leeds, England, appeared before the St James Parish Court last Wednesday, where she pleaded guilty to the charges.

The court heard that Rwenhamo was apprehended on June 16 at the Sangster International Airport. During a routine security check conducted by police personnel from the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID), approximately 3:50 p.m., officers discovered the cocaine concealed within two wooden craft items with false compartments in her suitcases. Rwenhamo had checked in to board TUI flight TOM115 to Manchester, England, at the time of her arrest.

Rwenhamo faced multiple charges, including possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, attempting to export cocaine, and conspiracy. The Parish Court judge fined her $400,000 or 30 months' imprisonment for possession of cocaine, $400,000 or 30 months' imprisonment for dealing in cocaine, and another $400,000 or 30 months' imprisonment for attempting to export cocaine. The sentences will run concurrently if the fines are not paid. The charge of conspiracy was dismissed as no evidence was offered.

Meanwhile, in a separate incident, on June 16, officers from the FNID and Area 2 seized more than $5 million under the Proceeds of Crime Act. This followed an intensive investigation into illicit activities in an area of St Mary.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force continues to enforce the law rigorously, aiming to curb drug trafficking and related crimes across the island. The recent incidents underscore the ongoing efforts and vigilance of law enforcement officers in tackling illegal activities and ensuring the safety and security of the country.

Reacting to the developments, Superintendent Sam Blake, head of FNID, said the police would "continue to collaborate with our local, regional and international partners to ensure optimum impact on those groups seeking to profit from the narcotics and firearms trade".