Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

A Malaysian transit passenger caught with over 4kg of cocaine in his luggage has been sentenced to life imprisonment in Dubai, followed by deportation. The 37-year-old was found guilty of attempting to smuggle narcotics through Dubai International Airport during a layover. The defendant, who was traveling from Brazil to Malaysia via Lisbon and Dubai, was apprehended on July 13, 2023, after customs officials noticed his suspicious behavior. Inspectors observed that he appeared nervous and was walking with difficulty. Upon searching his hand luggage, authorities discovered two plastic-wrapped packages concealed in its compartments. Forensic analysis later confirmed the packages contained 4,193.5 grams of cocaine. During the investigation, the man admitted that he was promised $500 to deliver the bag to Malaysia. He claimed ignorance of its contents, saying he was told they were "valuable items" meant to avoid taxation. Despite his claims, the court ruled that the method of concealment and the quantity of the drugs indicated his full awareness of the smuggling attempt. Under UAE law, drug trafficking crimes apply even in transit cases if the contraband enters the country’s jurisdiction. Life imprisonment in the UAE typically equates to a 25-year sentence. ICA/Expat Media
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