Trini held in UK jail

A 44-year-old Trinidadian is in jail in England after he was arrested at Heathrow International Airport last month carrying a large amount of United States currency. According to reports, the Trinidadian has been charged with money laundering under the British Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 and the Money Laundering Regulations 2003. According to reports, the suspect boarded a BWIA flight for London shortly before Christmas. On his arrival at Heathrow International Airport, the Trinidadian indicated to the British immigration authorities that he was staying just a few days in London. A random search was carried out on the visitor by Customs officials. During the search, the Customs officials found “an unusually large amount of US money” in the possession of the Trinidadian.

When questioned, the Trinidadian revealed that he had just sold a boat for someone in Trinidad and was carrying the money for that person. The Customs officials believed otherwise. Realising that the suspect was carrying more money than he was allowed by British financial regulations, Customs officials reported the matter to the National Criminal Intelligence Service. The report to the Intelligence Service is mandatory under the Proceeds of Crime Act and the Money Laundering Regulations. The police were called in and the suspect, who lives in San Fernando, was arrested and subsequently charged with money laundering offences.

Because of the long Christmas holiday in London, the Trinidadian was not taken to court until last week. He was able to secure the services of an English lawyer to represent him. However, no details were available as to his appearance in court. The Trinidadian, who is a well-known gambler, is no stranger to foreign courts. He was arrested years ago when he arrived in the United States carrying a quantity of cocaine. He was found guilty and jailed for ten years. He was deported to Trinidad three years ago. The suspect was planning to spend a few days in London and was expected to be back home with his family when he was arrested.