TWO MEN have been charged with attempting to smuggle cocaine worth £5.2m into the UK via Hampshire.
Michael Ebanks, 31, from Bromley, and Mark West, 35, from Purley, were arrested in October and April respectively.
This followed a seizure of 52kg of cocaine from a lorry which had arrived at Portsmouth continental ferry terminal on a ferry from Caen on October 18.
The drugs would have been worth approximately £5.2 million if cut and sold on the street.
Last Thursday, both men were charged with drugs smuggling and possession with intent to supply of a Class B drug. Mr Ebanks was also charged with possession with intent to supply of a Class C drug.
They appeared at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where they were remanded in custody to appear at Portsmouth Crown Court on 1 July.
Anyone who has information on suspected smuggling or immigration offences can visit ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk or call the Border Force hotline on 0800 59 5000.
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