TEGUCIGALPA: Seven Honduran nationals have been arrested after Her Majesty’s Customs seized a fishing vessel this week. Those on the boat included six males and one female. One person is on bail, while the others remain in custody as the investigation continues.
Customs officers remove materials from the vessel after their search.
The arrests came after Customs officers found drugs and under-declared alcohol on board the vessel ‘Baby Sol’ on Tuesday (29 September).
Collector of Customs Charles Clifford said the 50-foot fishing vessel called into George Town Port, and during the clearance process, customs officers became suspicious and initiated a full search of the vessel and crew, which led to the discovery and arrests.
The Collector of Customs said the investigation has the potential to be protracted.
Mr. Clifford credited the Customs Seaport, K-9 Unit and Customs Narcotics Enforcement Unit officers for the intervention and detection.
“We will continue to focus on protecting our borders and those found in contravention of the various laws must realize that the rule of law shall prevail,” he warned.
The Customs boss declined to make further comment at this stage and explained that the investigation “has the potential to be protracted”.
