A cannabis bust in Vieux Fort sees drug charges filed against customs employee
VIEUX FORT, St Lucia — Drug charges have been filed against a St Lucia Customs and Excise Department employee following a cannabis bust in Vieux Fort that resulted in the seizure of several kilograms of controlled substances.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force confirmed that a joint intelligence-led operation was carried out by the Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit (GNFU) on Friday, June 27, after authorities received information about a suspicious package arriving at the Vieux Fort port.
The package was retrieved from the cargo shed and intercepted during a coordinated response by law enforcement. Upon examination, officers discovered four kilograms of compressed cannabis and two kilograms of cannabis resin, both concealed within everyday household items.
Two individuals were arrested without incident: Andrina Epiphane, a customs administrative employee, and Shaquille Walker of George Charles Boulevard. Both have since been formally charged with the following offenses:
- Possession of Controlled Drugs (Cannabis)
- Possession with Intent to Supply (Cannabis)
- Possession of Controlled Drugs (Cannabis Resin)
- Possession with Intent to Supply (Cannabis Resin)
- Importation of Controlled Drugs
In addition to the drug charges, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force has launched a parallel financial investigation with support from the Financial Intelligence Authority. Authorities are examining potential money laundering activity and have initiated asset forfeiture proceedings against vehicles believed to be linked to the case.
Police reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to drug trafficking, especially when public officials are implicated. In a statement, the force emphasized its commitment to safeguarding public institutions and maintaining national security.
The case forms part of a broader clampdown on narcotics and organized crime. Earlier this year, law enforcement carried out a Castries port gun seizure and mounted a targeted organized crime crackdown, underscoring efforts to disrupt criminal networks across the island.
An earlier report on the arrests related to this operation can be accessed here.
The investigation into the cannabis bust in Vieux Fort remains ongoing. Police have not ruled out additional charges or arrests.
Unitedpac St Lucia News will continue to provide factual updates as more information becomes available.
