KINGSTON, Jamaica – Detectives assigned to the Firearms and Narcotics Investigation Division (FNID) have arrested two senior government employees – a man and a woman – following the seizure of over $5 million worth of cocaine during an operation at the Sangster International Airport in St James on Friday.

The identities of the suspects are being withheld pending further investigations.

According to a release, about midday on Friday, both individuals were intercepted by port security and FNID personnel at a security checkpoint while attempting to board a flight destined for New York.

During a search of their luggage, officers found several false compartments containing rectangular packages of cocaine, weighing 9.25 kg. The illicit drug has an estimated street value of $5.4 million.

A search of a handbag also yielded a sum of cash in United States currency.

Following the airport arrests, FNID officers conducted secondary operations at the residences of both suspects where a Glock 19 pistol, 13 rounds of ammunition and an ounce of cocaine were found.

One of the suspects also revealed to the police that he had ingested more than 70 pellets of cocaine; he has since been admitted in a medical facility, under police guard.

Director of FNID, Superintendent Patrae Rowe, said that the police have intensified their operations to nab perpetrators involved in 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,” said Superintendent Rowe.

The investigations into the seizure are ongoing.