A 21-year-old British roofer was arrested in Zagreb, Croatia, for allegedly smuggling 39 bags of marijuana after traveling from Thailand. Authorities discovered over 23 kg of the drug in his luggage, leading to an investigation into his role in the smuggling operation. He now awaits trial, with significant penalties for drug offenses in Croatia.
A British roofer, aged 21, has been detained for allegedly attempting to smuggle 39 bags of marijuana after arriving in Zagreb, Croatia, from Thailand. Authorities became suspicious upon x-raying his luggage, which appeared overloaded with suspicious contents. Subsequent analysis confirmed that his suitcase contained over 23 kilograms of marijuana.
While the accused claimed ignorance regarding the drugs, he is currently under investigation for drug smuggling. His travel itinerary included a flight from Thailand that stopped in Istanbul before reaching Franjo Tuđman Airport in Zagreb. His black suitcase raised alarms with sniffer dogs, leading to more in-depth examinations.
Upon discovery, investigators found 39 vacuum-sealed bags of plant material on the floor, which tested positive for THC, the active component in marijuana. Initially, he maintained a clueless stance but later suggested he had been coerced into transporting the illegal cargo.
The suspect was taken to the Velika Gorica Municipal Prosecutor’s Office for further questioning and is now being held in custody pending trial. According to local reports, the presiding judge has recommended against bail due to the risk of flight, as he is a foreign national. The court proceedings are expected to take place within a month.
In Croatia, the penalties for growing, selling, or distributing cannabis entail a minimum prison sentence of three years, highlighting the severity of drug-related offenses in the country.
The arrest of the British roofer underscores the serious consequences associated with drug smuggling in Croatia. Following his arrest at Zagreb airport with a substantial quantity of marijuana, the accused’s initial claims of ignorance have shifted under interrogation. With the trial scheduled to occur within a month, the implications of drug-related laws in Croatia are accentuated by the severe penalties for narcotics trafficking.
Original Source: www.thesun.co.uk
