Financial Investigation Launched Following Major Drug Bust

A recent drug seizure in Vieux Fort has initiated an accompanying financial probe, as authorities investigate potential money laundering and asset forfeiture associated with the intercepted consignment. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF), supported by the Financial Intelligence Authority, is examining the financial implications resulting from an operation conducted by its Gangs, Narcotics, and Firearms Unit last Friday. A police statement issued on Monday detailed that officers acted on reliable intelligence concerning “a suspicious package” arriving at the port. “The package was retrieved from the cargo shed and subsequently intercepted during a coordinated response in the southern town,” the RSLPF noted. The examination revealed it contained four kilograms of compressed cannabis and two kilograms of cannabis resin, cleverly concealed within commonplace household items. Two suspects, Andrina Epiphane and Shaquille Walker, have been arrested and charged with multiple offenses related to drug possession and trafficking. Additionally, alterations to financial aspects of this investigation have commenced, focusing on potential asset seizures linked to the operation.