On Wednesday 19th April 2023, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS), Drugs Unit, assisted by the Financial Crime Unit, Criminal Investigation Unit and the Tactical Division, intercepted two vehicles, in which persons who had just left the Executive Jet Facility at the L.F. Wade International Airport were travelling. A subsequent search of the individuals and their luggage, led to the recovery of a significant quantity of the controlled drug, cannabis.

The drugs seized carry an estimated street value of over $14 million BDA.

The seizure was part of an operation dubbed, “Operation FURUD” and also resulted in the arrest of nine suspects, one of whom is a Senior Customs Officer. As part of the operation, warrants were executed at a number of residences in Pembroke, Hamilton parish, Warwick and Southampton.

Acting Detective Superintendent, Sherwin Joseph, the officer in charge of Crime Division stated: “This seizure, has led to the dismantling of a major drug trafficking ring and left Bermuda a much safer place. The BPS is well aware that efforts such as this, aimed at trafficking drugs into the island, often involve the illegal importation of firearms and other contraband. We will continue to work with our partners at our ports of entry, to strengthen existing security controls, and protect our community.”

No further information will be provided at this time. The BPS Drugs Unit continues investigations into this incident.