MONTEGO BAY, St James — A 50-year-old British man on Monday pleaded guilty to multiple drug-related offences stemming from his arrest after $26-million worth of cocaine was found in frozen coconuts inside his luggage at the airport.

Nigel Manning, who is from Northumberland, London, was hauled before the St James Parish Court to answer to four charges: possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, attempting to export cocaine, and conspiracy to export cocaine.

He was represented by attorney-at-law Donovan Collins.

In mitigation, Collins pointed to two aspects highlighted in the social enquiry report: his client’s mental condition and the circumstances that led to him having the drug in his possession. He emphasised that Manning appeared to be more of a victim than a mastermind.

Collins argued that Manning’s own words reflected this, referencing his admission to authorities that he suspected he was carrying drugs.

“That is commendable, Your Honour,” Collins told the judge. “That shows this is a man who is remorseful, because he didn’t have to tell us that.”

He further urged the court to consider Manning’s mental health when making its decision.

At that point, presiding judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce presented the attorney with a range of options: keep the accused in custody for a psychiatric evaluation, send him to Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre for assessment, or proceed directly to sentencing. She then requested that Collins consult with his client and provide clear guidance.

“I have already consulted with him,” Collins replied.

The judge pressed for clarity, “You need to tell me specifically whether he requires psychiatric evaluation or not.”

Collins then advised the court that while the issue of mental illness had been raised, Manning did not need an evaluation and was prepared to proceed with sentencing. He also informed the court that his client had previously suffered a stroke and was not in good health, which should be taken into account.

Judge Grant-Pryce acknowledged the situation and noted that while incarceration would be necessary, the sentence would not be lengthy, and fines would also be imposed.

For possession of cocaine, Manning was sentenced to six months in prison and fined $1.5 million. For attempting to export cocaine, he received another six-month sentence and a further $1.5-million fine. Both prison terms are to run concurrently.

He was admonished and discharged on the two remaining charges.

However, if the fines are not paid, he will serve an additional nine months in prison — consecutively to the six-month term already imposed.

According to court documents, around 3:00 pm on March 13 Manning was at Sangster International Airport in the process of checking in for a flight to Gatwick, London, when his suitcase was searched.

Seven frozen coconuts turned out to be more than just tropical treats — they were packed with a total of nine pounds of cocaine, with an estimated street value of £128,000 ($26 million).