Newly acquired TTS Nelson 2 in major drug bust

At about 12.30 pm yesterday whilst on its first patrol in Northern Gulf of Paria officers aboard the TTS Nelson observed a pirogue on the water.

The occupants of the pirogue spotted the vessel, and suddenly changed its direction and sped off.

The Nelson quickly launched its onboard interceptor, and gave chase.

The interceptor caught up with the fleeing pirogue and searched it, but the vessel had nothing on-board.

Due to the interceptor crew’s diligence an immediate check of the beach area of the nearby island a crocus bag containing smaller packets was recovered.

The crocus bag was later brought to Staubles Bay where it was found to be containing 27 packets of marijuana.

The illegal packages were handed over to Organised Crime Narcotics and Firearms Bureau, for further processing.

In a release, Coast Guard Lieutenant Commander, Kirk Jean-Baptiste said the Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard remains vigilant in the fight against crime in the maritime sphere, and continues to do its service to Trinidad and Tobago.