Police in Trinidad and Tobago have seized approximately 416.5 kilogrammes (918 pounds) of cocaine with an estimated street value of TT$193.5 million (US$28.6 million) during an intelligence-led operation in the eastern town of Longdenville.

The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said the operation was carried out between 3:40 am on September 2, and 3:30 am on September 3, in the Longdenville Police District.

The investigation centred on suspected firearms and narcotics being concealed at a property along Pokhor Road.

Acting under Section 12 of the Emergency Powers Regulations 2026, officers searched a residence, warehouse and surrounding compound for firearms, narcotics and other prohibited items.

During the search, officers found six large backhoe tyres mounted on rims inside the warehouse.

A closer examination of four of the tyres revealed rectangular packages concealed inside them. Police recovered 420 packages in total.

Three people were detained in connection with the seizure.

A 42-year-old businessman from the British Virgin Islands was arrested on suspicion of offences connected with the discovery, while two Saint Lucian nationals, aged 38 and 37, were also detained.

The operation was coordinated by Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police for the Criminal Division, Kerwin Francis, with operational leadership provided by Acting Assistant Superintendent of Police St Clair.

Crime Scene Investigations officers PC Naipaul and No. PC Frankbull processed the scene, while Customs and Excise officers assisted with the weighing and recording of the seized packages.

The cocaine was subsequently taken to the Special Investigations Unit in Port of Spain, the capital of Trinidad and Tobago.

The three detained persons were taken to St Joseph Police Station pending further enquiries.

Investigations are continuing.