National Crime Agency
 Printable version
|
£5m cocaine seizure at Yorkshire airfield
A pilot has been charged with conspiring to import class A drugs after 34 kilos of cocaine were seized at an airfield near Selby.
Andrew Wright, 51, of Barlow, North Yorkshire was arrested after Border Force officers examined a light aircraft which landed at Breighton Aerodrome on Monday 17 November.
He was taken for questioning by officers from the National Crime Agency whose investigation is continuing.
Wright appeared before Leeds Magistrates on Wednesday 19 November and was remanded in custody until his next appearance at Leeds Crown Court on December 3.
Mick Maloney, from the NCA’s Border Policing Command, said:
“This was a significant seizure and we estimate that once cut the drugs would have had a UK street value of in excess £5 million. Our investigation into those involved continues.
“I would encourage anyone who has information about unusual use of aircraft or activity in and around small airfields like Breighton to report it, no matter how trivial it may seem."
Earlier this year Border Force, the NCA and UK police forces launched Project Pegasus, a multi-agency campaign encouraging people living and working close to small airports to report unusual activity associated with general aviation.
General aviation includes aircraft such as microlights, helicopters, and business jets, and activities such as aerial surveys, deliveries, corporate flights and leisure flying.
Anyone with information about unusual activity can report it to their local police force on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Mark Robinson, Assistant Director for Border Force, said:
“This was an excellent seizure and demonstrates how Border Force officers play a crucial role in protecting the UK from illegal drugs and other contraband. By stopping this smuggling attempt we have prevented a sizeable amount of cocaine making it onto the streets.
“Working with law enforcement colleagues including the NCA we are determined to do all we can to prevent drug trafficking and put those responsible behind bars.”
Border Force officers are the front line in protecting the country and play a key role in detecting illegal immigration, disrupting serious and organised crime and helping to prevent the threat of terrorism. Border Force also protects the UK’s revenue, contributing to the nation’s prosperity and growth.
