Trinidad police seize US$28.6m in cocaine hidden in backhoe tyres

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) — Police have seized 416.5 kilogrammes of cocaine with an estimated street value of TT$193.5 million (US$28.6 million) after discovering the drugs concealed inside four backhoe tyres at a warehouse in Longdenville, Trinidad. The Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) said the seizure was made during an intelligence-led operation carried out between Wednesday and Thursday in the Longdenville Police District. Police said their enquiries focused on the suspected concealment of illegal firearms and narcotics at premises along Pokhor Road, Longdenville. Officers searched a residence, warehouse and surrounding compound under Section 12 of the Emergency Powers Regulations 2026. During the search, they found six large backhoe tyres mounted on rims inside the warehouse. A closer examination revealed rectangular packages inside four of the tyres. Police said 420 packages were seized. A 42-year-old businessman from the British Virgin Islands was arrested in connection with the seizure. Two Saint Lucian nationals, aged 38 and 37, were also detained. The seized items were taken to the Special Investigations Unit in Port of Spain, while the three detained persons were taken to the St Joseph Police Station pending further enquiries. The TTPS said investigations are continuing.