Nine Thai nationals, aged between 21 and 50, appeared in court in Port-Louis, Mauritius, on October 29. They are accused of being involved in the importation of approximately one tonne of cannabis into the country. The suspects, who are being held in police custody, had their detention extended until November 5. The case involves the yacht Dreamer, which is believed to have made two deliveries of cannabis by sea.
The lawyer for the captain of the yacht Dreamer, Me Somand Kumar Adheen, raised concerns about the availability of an interpreter during the investigation. Adheen pointed out that Mauritius does not have a certified interpreter, which could hinder the progress of the case. He emphasized that a fair trial requires the presence of an interpreter to ensure that the rights of the accused are protected.
The investigation, led by the Anti-Drug and Smuggling Unit (ADSU), suggests that the nine suspects were involved in a network that imported cannabis from Thailand to Mauritius. The alleged smuggling operation involved two deliveries of cannabis by sea, totaling over a tonne. The ADSU is continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
In addition to the nine Thai nationals, a Mauritian officer from the National Coast Guard (NCG) has also been arrested and charged with conspiracy to import a dangerous drug. The officer is accused of withholding information and providing intelligence to the crew of the yacht Dreamer. The ADSU is working to determine the extent of the officer's involvement in the alleged smuggling operation.
During the court hearing, Adheen emphasized the importance of a fair trial, citing the Mauritian Constitution. He stated that his client has the right to a fair trial, which includes the presence of an interpreter. The court will need to consider this request when deciding how to proceed with the case.
The case has raised concerns about the smuggling of cannabis into Mauritius and the involvement of foreign nationals in such operations. The authorities are working to disrupt and dismantle the alleged smuggling network, which is believed to be operating between Thailand and Mauritius.
The investigation is ongoing, and the authorities are urging anyone with information about the alleged smuggling operation to come forward. The nine Thai nationals and the Mauritian officer will remain in custody until further notice. The court will reconvene on November 5 to review the case.
Key points
- The nine Thai nationals accused of importing cannabis into Mauritius will remain in custody until November 5.
- The lawyer for the captain of the yacht Dreamer has requested an interpreter for the investigation.
- A Mauritian officer from the National Coast Guard has also been arrested and charged with conspiracy to import a dangerous drug.
