Major Cannabis Smuggling Bust at UK Airports Highlights Need for Advanced Screening

In September 2024, UK authorities intercepted an ambitious drug trafficking operation attempting to smuggle over 300 kilograms of cannabis into the country via Heathrow and Gatwick airports. Eleven individuals were charged in connection with the operation, which unfolded over two days and involved multiple international flights.

Authorities discovered significant quantities of cannabis hidden in passenger luggage, including:

• 45 kg in two suitcases from Bangkok via Muscat

• 19 kg from a flight from Toronto

• 36 kg from California, USA

• 45 kg from Bangkok via Doha

• Additional quantities ranging from 17 kg to 43 kg from flights arriving from Bangkok, Bahrain, and Toronto

Two additional arrests occurred at Gatwick Airport, with 20 kg seized from each suspect. In total, approximately 270 kg of cannabis was intercepted at Heathrow alone.

The National Crime Agency (NCA) noted that organised crime gangs are increasingly exploiting legal cannabis production overseas, recruiting couriers to transport it to the UK where profits are higher. NCA Branch Commander Andy Noyes emphasized the serious consequences for traffickers: “Anyone who attempts to smuggle drugs into the UK will be identified, arrested, and will face prison.”

This case highlights the critical importance of advanced screening technologies capable of detecting large-scale drug trafficking operations. The SAUST EU-funded Project addresses these challenges with high-resolution vapour screening technology, designed to enhance detection accuracy, streamline baggage inspections, and prevent illicit substances from reaching the public, even when traffickers attempt to exploit high-volume international travel routes.

Learn more here.