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Man arrested at Corvera Airport after trying twice to fly drugs to Manchester
The suspect was recognised when he returned to Murcia International to catch yet another flight to the UK
A man has been arrested at Murcia International Airport after allegedly trying twice to smuggle almost 15kg of drugs onto a flight bound for Manchester.
According to the Guardia Civil, the suspect first fled Corvera Airport after officers became suspicious of a suitcase checked into the aircraft hold during a routine baggage inspection carried out as part of Operation Safe Summer.
Border and customs officers examined the luggage and discovered a large haul of drugs hidden inside. The suitcase contained 4kg of marijuana buds sealed in six vacuum-packed bags, along with more than 10kg of hashish pellets stored in a further five packages.
Investigators believe the drugs were destined for the UK.
While officers were trying to identify the owner of the suitcase, the passenger reportedly noticed what was happening from the terminal and quickly left the airport before he could be arrested.
The Guardia Civil launched an investigation and identified the suspect, issuing a warrant for his arrest. Officers say he later tried to avoid detection by arranging for someone else to buy him a last-minute ticket to Manchester and even wore a hat in an attempt to disguise himself when he returned to the airport.
However, officers who had been monitoring the airport recognised him immediately as he passed through security and arrested him before he could board the flight.
Image: Guardia Civil
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