Vieux Fort man charged after seamoss parcel drug bust St Lucia exposes $86K cocaine stash
CASTRIES, St Lucia — Authorities have foiled a seamoss parcel drug bust in St Lucia after uncovering more than three kilograms of cocaine concealed in a package at the General Post Office in Castries. Police said the interception has been linked to a Vieux Fort resident now facing multiple charges.
The discovery was made on Aug. 15 during a joint inspection of outbound parcels. The Customs and Excise Department led the operation, supported by the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms (GNF) Unit and a K9 team. Officials said the postal service has become a common target for traffickers, prompting stricter checks. This latest interception follows a St Lucia Post Office drug bust reported earlier this year by Unitedpac St Lucia News.
Cocaine hidden inside seamoss package
Investigators said a cardboard box declared as seamoss contained four compressed bricks of a white substance. Field testing confirmed the material was cocaine, weighing 3.44 kilograms with an estimated street value of $86,000. Officers documented, packaged, and secured the evidence in the presence of investigators.
Vieux Fort suspect arrested and charged
Information from the GNF South Branch identified the sender as Neil Alexander of Pierrot, Vieux Fort. On Sept. 3, police executed a warrant at his home, arresting and cautioning him on suspicion of trafficking offences.
The following day, Alexander was formally charged with possession of cocaine and attempting to export cocaine under the Drug (Prevention of Misuse) Act. He was also charged with attempting to ship prohibited goods and fraudulent evasion under the Customs (Control and Management) Act.
Bail granted with strict conditions
On Sept. 5, Alexander appeared in court, where he was granted bail of $27,900. Conditions attached to his release include surrendering his travel documents, a ban on overseas travel, and mandatory reporting to local authorities.
Commissioner commends inter-agency collaboration
Police Commissioner Verne Garde praised the combined effort, noting that increased coordination among law enforcement agencies has led to several successful interdictions in recent months. He said the interception of the seamoss parcel was another disruption of smuggling attempts targeting St Lucia’s borders.
Authorities said investigations are continuing as officers pursue potential links to broader drug trafficking operations.
For continued coverage of major crime stories and developing investigations in St Lucia, follow Unitedpac St Lucia News.
