VIEUX FORT, St Lucia — A Vieux Fort hashish seizure has led to criminal charges and a court-ordered remand after law enforcement officers intercepted a concealed shipment of cannabis and cannabis resin at the island’s southern seaport.
The operation, conducted jointly by the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit and Customs and Excise, targeted a suspicious consignment identified during routine port checks. Officials said the shipment, packaged as a blue barrel containing food items and personal effects, was selected for inspection.
Drugs concealed in barrel shipment at seaport
During the examination, officers uncovered multiple vacuum-sealed packages hidden within the barrel. Authorities confirmed the seizure of 36 packages of cannabis resin, commonly known as hashish, weighing approximately 16.8 kilograms.
An additional 29 packages of cannabis, weighing about 12.85 kilograms, were also recovered. Investigators collected documents linked to the shipment as part of ongoing inquiries into the origin and intended distribution of the drugs.
The concealment method reflects a pattern seen in narcotics trafficking, where everyday cargo is used to disguise illicit substances entering through ports of entry.
Vieux Fort hashish seizure leads to charges and remand
Police identified the suspect as Stewart Emmanuel, who was present during the inspection. He was arrested, cautioned, and taken into custody following the discovery.
Emmanuel has since been formally charged with importation of controlled drugs, possession of controlled drugs, and possession of controlled drugs with intent to supply.
He appeared before the Second District Court on Monday, March 16, 2026, where he was remanded into custody. Authorities confirmed that investigations remain active as they continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the shipment.
The case highlights ongoing enforcement efforts aimed at disrupting drug trafficking through St Lucia’s maritime entry points. Similar operations have also unfolded elsewhere on the island, including a recent case in Castries Basin involving drug arrests and weapons seizures.
The case highlights ongoing enforcement efforts aimed at disrupting drug trafficking through St Lucia’s maritime entry points, where officials remain on heightened alert for concealed narcotics shipments.
