A Canadian senior, Ronald Lord, attempted to avoid detection by U.K. border officials at a London airport in February by using a mobility scooter and citing his age as a shield. However, his plan failed when authorities discovered eight kilograms of cocaine hidden in the scooter’s back seat panel. Lord, 71, from Montreal, was sentenced to six years in jail for drug smuggling after pleading guilty to the charges in August.
Upon Lord’s arrival from Barbados at Gatwick airport, border force officials uncovered the cocaine, valued at approximately $1.2 million Cdn, during an X-ray scan of the scooter. Lord initially denied any involvement with the drugs, claiming to be a tourist on vacation. However, investigators traced his flight history, revealing his journey from Montreal to Barbados and then to the U.K.
Further incriminating evidence was found, including a screw from the scooter’s seat panel in Lord’s possession and messages on his phone indicating payment for the illicit activity. The National Crime Agency (NCA) highlighted the increasing use of unsuspecting individuals, like Lord, by drug gangs for smuggling operations.
In a statement, Richard Wickham, the NCA’s senior investigating officer, emphasized the profit-driven and exploitative nature of drug trafficking. The agency noted the variety of unconventional methods employed by smugglers, such as concealing drugs in items like dry ice, artificial grass, and even cheese. The NCA’s successful prosecutions of other drug smugglers reflect the ongoing battle against organized crime groups.
Following Lord’s sentencing, Wickham issued a warning to potential offenders, urging them to reconsider using mobility devices as a means of evading border security. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences individuals face when engaging in drug smuggling activities.