Detectives from Jamaica’s Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID) have arrested two municipal corporation employees after seizing more than JM$5 million (US$31648.08) worth of cocaine during an operation at the Sangster International Airport.

The arrests were made around midday on January 16, as the pair, a man and a woman, attempted to board a flight bound for New York. 

Their identities are being withheld as investigations continue.

Police said the suspects were intercepted at a security checkpoint by Port Security and FNID personnel. 

A search of their luggage uncovered several false compartments containing rectangular packages of cocaine weighing 9.25 kilograms. The drugs have an estimated street value of JM$5.4 million. 

Officers also recovered a sum of cash in US currency from a handbag.

Following the airport seizure, FNID officers carried out follow-up operations at the suspects’ homes, where they found a Glock 19 pistol, 13 rounds of ammunition and approximately one ounce of cocaine.

Investigators also revealed that one of the suspects admitted to ingesting more than 70 pellets of cocaine. 

He has since been taken to a medical facility, where he remains under police guard.

Director of FNID, Superintendent Patrae Rowe, said the arrests form part of intensified efforts to disrupt the illegal firearms and narcotics trade.

“This operation underscores the intensified investigations by the Jamaica Constabulary Force to maintain the integrity of our borders and hold all individuals accountable, regardless of their professional standing or social status. We are continuing our mission to further dismantle the networks that facilitate the trafficking of illicit drugs and firearms,” Rowe said.

Investigations into the matter are ongoing.