but by nightfall yesterday

micevan1l6

– shipment concealed in lumber destined for EuropeAgents of the country’s main anti -drug unit yesterday unearthed a massive quantity of cocaine which was stashed in hollowed out lumber destined for Europe. As a result of the bust, several suspects have been detained to assist with investigations, Head of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), James Singh, told reporters yesterday.Kaieteur News was told that approximately 314 kilograms (692 pounds) of the illegal drug were extracted from ‘lumber boxes’ at a sawmill located at the Soesdyke/Linden Highway junction. Among those detained is a European national said to hold a senior position in the establishment.This publication was further informed that the drug shipment was headed for The Netherlands (Holland) – being shipped by Guyana Timber Products Inc. Reports are that various state agencies were involved in the probe which was allegedly initiated by the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC).According to information, the forestry agency had suspicions about the company’s lumber shipments after it repeatedly failed to adhere to policies.The drugs were found in a container which was said to have been cleared and was due for shipment. The GFC reportedly insisted that a complete check be done of the containers in the presence of Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and CANU agents.  Sources said that the timber company had experienced ups and downs with GFC after the latter had cited insolence on the part of the company in relation to adherence to rules and regulations. As a result some of the company’s shipments were denied at certain intervals.At least seven containers were said to be of interest to investigators, but by nightfall yesterday, only one had been searched.  The drug container was taken back to the sawmill’s compound where it was re-opened and the lumber stripped to reveal a hollow inside neatly packed with sealed packages of the illicit substance.Kaieteur News was further told that earlier this month, the lumber yard had reportedly been closed by GFC with some of the workers being laid off. This was as a result of the company’s conduct.The street value of the cocaine is said to be millions of US dollars.