Mexican national sentenced for cocaine smuggling

19 Jul 2006 10:15 AM

A Mexican national was sentenced to three years and nine months at Glasgow High Court last Thursday, (6/7/06), for attempting to smuggle cocaine through Glasgow airport. HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) officers discovered nearly three kilos of cocaine in his luggage, when he arrived at Glasgow airport on 18 February 2006.

HMRC officers at Glasgow airport detained Yadir Adnan Gonzalez Rios of Cancun, Mexico when he arrived from Mexico via Amsterdam. Gonzales Rios had attempted to smuggle two packages of cocaine, valued at around £75,000, disguised as weights within a diving vest. He was arrested and charged with attempting to smuggle cocaine into Scotland.

HMRC acting Head of Investigation Scotland, John Fitzcharles said: "This detection of Class A drugs by HMRC, and the subsequent conviction of the courier, is the latest in a series of similar successes by Revenue & Customs who continue to play a key role in protecting Scottish communities.

"HMRC investigators and detection officers at Scotland's airports and ports are determined to stop Class A drugs reaching our streets.

"Today's case sends another significant warning to anyone tempted to smuggle drugs. HMRC officers continue to work flexibly with the police and other agencies across Scotland to protect our communities by investigating, prosecuting and removing the financial benefits from individuals or organisations involved in the illegal importation of drugs.

"If you know of any suspicious activities which may be linked to drug smuggling, call our 24-hour freephone 0800 59 5000."

Notes for editors

1. Yadir Adnan Gonzales Rios, (dob 10/02/1976), Fracc Punla, Sam T.N. Int 3, Cancun, Mexico, pleaded guilty on 08 June 2006 at Glasgow High Court.

2. The two packages of Cocaine had purity levels of 75% and 85% respectively.

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