Police dismantle major drug smuggling gang operating between Dominica and Guadeloupe

The case got underway on April 29, 2013 and the court heard that the men were part of a vast drug network operating between the two countries. They were accused of transporting over two tons of marijuana between the neighboring countries from end-2010 to mid-2012. French authorities also seized 88 kilos of cocaine during a single bust.

The men have also been charged with the importation and smuggling of dangerous goods, including firearms. The network is said to have operated in the French sectors of Baie-Mahault , Gosier, Pointe-a-Pitre and Capesterre-Belle ‘Eau.

Investigations into the smuggling ring were conducted by the French Gendarmes who eventually dismantled and arrested the individuals involved who came from Dominica and Guadeloupe.

The elaborate investigation involved the use of telephone wiretaps to monitor conversations between the accused. It is reported that in one day there were 400 calls between the traffickers.

Guadeloupe is said to be a major trans-shipment point for drugs between the Caribbean and mainland France. Custom officers have seized up to 30 kilograms of cocaine from persons leaving the island for France. As late as Monday April 30, a man travelling with his 6-month old baby was arrested with 15 kilos of cocaine, as he attempted to leave Guadeloupe.

The Prosecution team maintains that those accused pleaded guilty when they were initially arrested, but now before the courts, they have denied the charges or even knowing the other co-defendants.