Maltese customs bust €4.5 million cocaine consignment smuggled inside fridge

The Maltese Customs department landed a substantial narcotics bust when a refrigerated container from Ecuador and destined to Cyprus was selected for scanning following risk analysis carried out by the department's Container Monitoring Unit.

Following a scan using the new Nuctech scanner, several packets containing a white substance were located, and consequently discovered hidden, behind a panel above the refrigerant compressor.

A total of 35 individual packets weighing a total of 44kg were elevated. The substance was tested and preliminary results point to a positive indication for cocaine. The approximate street value is calculated to be €4.5 million.

A refrigerated container from Ecuador and destined to Cyprus was selected for scanning following risk analysis

The case was handed over to the Police Anti Drug Squad for further investigations, while duty Magistrate, Dr Joe Mifsud,  is leading a Magisterial inquiry.

A total of 35 individual packets weighing a total of 44kg were elevated

The substance was tested and preliminary results point to a positive indication for cocaine

The cocaine was found following a scan using the new Nuctech scanner