09/06/2003

Man in court over heroin smuggling charges

A 56-year-old man is expected in court today charged with attempting to smuggle heroin through Manchester Airport at the weekend.

Portuguese national, Abdul Gafur, was arrested after Customs officers discovered around five kilos of the Class A drug concealed in luggage. The haul had an estimated street value of £350,000.

He had arrived at Manchester from Lahore, Pakistan, on Friday and is expected to appear before Manchester Magistrates Court this morning.

Customs spokesperson Phil Rogers said: "The vigilance of Customs officers at Manchester Airport has stopped a significant amount of Class A drugs reaching our streets.

"This shows our commitment, in line with the government's drug strategy, to reducing the availability of dangerous drugs."

Anyone with information about illegally imported drugs, tobacco or alcohol or about VAT fraud can speak to a Customs officer in confidence on 0800 59 5000.

(GMcG)

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