Collector of Customs, Mr. Charles Clifford, confirmed that on Tuesday, 29th September 2015 Her Majesty’s Customs seized a 50 foot fishing vessel, following the discovery on board of a quantity of drugs, seafood, and under-declared alcohol.

In addition officers arrested the seven persons on board the vessel.

The Collector explained that the vessel called into George Town Port, and during the clearance process, customs officers became suspicious and initiated a full search of the vessel and crew, which led to the discovery and arrests.

Mr Clifford credited the Customs Seaport, K-9 Unit and Customs Narcotics Enforcement Unit (CNET) officers for the intervention and detection, and warned, “We will continue to focus on protecting our borders and those found in contravention of the various laws must realize that the rule of law shall prevail”.

He declined to make further comment at this stage, as he said the investigation has the potential to be protracted”.

All seven persons arrested are Honduran nationals, including six males and one female. One person is on bail while the other six remain in custody as the investigation continues.

Anyone with information relating to drugs, or other type of crimes, can contact HM Customs tip-line on 1-800- 534-8477 or Crime Stoppers on 800-8477 (TIPS).