The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, in partnership with the Customs and Excise Department,
continues to intensify interdiction efforts following a rise in drug trafficking activities at the
island’s ports of entry. Both the Customs and Excise Department and the Gangs, Narcotics and Firearms Unit (GNFU) have observed a marked increase in attempts to import illegal narcotics, often concealed within barrels and other cargo. These developments have prompted heightened surveillance and joint enforcement operations.
JULY 17TH, 2025 – MULTI-AGENCY CRIME SUPPRESSION OPERATION
On Wednesday, July 17th, a coordinated crime suppression operation was conducted by the GNFU, Special Operations Team, and the Department of Road Safety. The operation commenced at 6:00 p.m. and involved coordinated patrols, vehicular checkpoints, stop-and-search activities, and intelligence-driven sweeps across multiple communities.
NARCOTICS RECOVERY IN ROSE HILL
A targeted search was conducted at the residence of Salim Charles in Rose Hill. Officers recovered:
726 grams of cannabis resin
50 grams of cannabis
The estimated total street value was EC $29,540.00.
Salim Charles was arrested and charged with:
Possession of Cannabis
Possession of Cannabis Resin with Intent to Supply
Possession of Controlled Drugs
He was taken into custody at the Centralized Community Safety Centre, informed of his rights, and the narcotics were sealed as evidence. He was later granted bail in the sum of EC $32,000, cash or suitable surety. During the operation, teams were redirected to Black Mallet in response to a shooting incident involving multiple victims. All units mobilized to manage the unfolding situation and provide investigative support.
JULY 18TH, 2025 – PORT INTERDICTION SEIZURE
On Friday, July 18th, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., a joint interdiction operation was conducted at Shed 6,
Port Castries, by officers of the GNFU and the Customs and Excise Department.
The intervention was initiated after a female presented herself with an authorization letter to clear a barrel. Upon inspection, ten (10) packages of compressed green plant material were recovered.
A field test confirmed the substance as cannabis, weighing 9,980 grams, with an estimated street
value of EC $99,800.00. The matter is under active investigation and the Royal Saint Lucia Police
Force will provide an update as this matter unfolds.
The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force reiterates its unwavering commitment to disrupting the illegal
drug trade. As traffickers attempt to exploit shipping channels and communities, law enforcement
will continue to adapt and respond with full force in collaboration with partner agencies.