ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Law enforcement authorities say they have intercepted a vessel originating from Jamaica with more than 2,300 pounds of marijuana worth more than EC$30 million (One EC dollar = US$0.37 cents).

A statement from the Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP) said it participated in a joint operation involving the Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (Coast Guard) in intercepting the 65ft vessel on Wednesday.

It said the vessel, which it did not name originated from Jamaica and “was being operated by six Jamaican men whose ages range from 38 years old to 67 years old.

“The Captain and his crew are assisting the officers with their investigations,” the statement said, noting that the drugs had a street value of over EC$37 million.

The ONDCP said that the seizure is the third successful interdiction during this week and that law enforcement authorities have embarked on a programme specifically targeting young people about the consequences of illegal drugs.