Couple convicted of drug smuggling at Dover

A couple from Birmingham have been found guilty of attempting to smuggle approximately two and a half kilos of cocaine into the UK through Dover.

Canterbury Crown Court heard that on 6 April 2013 Border Force officers stopped a British-registered Nissan Pathfinder at the tourist controls in Dover's Eastern Docks. In the car were George and Michaela Asumaning who said they had been to Germany for a family holiday.

After questioning them officers searched the vehicle and found cocaine in black wrapped packages inside the centre console and in the wiper motor chamber. Tests later revealed that the drugs had an average purity of 57% and an estimated street value of £234,400.

Both were arrested and the investigation passed to the National Crime Agency (NCA). They were subsequently bailed to allow the NCA to make further enquiries.

Forensic testing found DNA on the packaging that matched George Asumaning's and the pair were charged with the attempted importation on 25 November 2013.

After a trial lasting eight days they were found guilty by a jury at Canterbury Crown Court on Friday 6 June 2014 and sentenced the same day.

George Asumaning received seven years imprisonment. Michaela Asumaning received a sentence of two years suspended for two years.

Paul Morgan, Director of Border Force South East and Europe said: "Drug trafficking is a serious offence and those convicted will face prison sentences. Our message to those who would consider it is that it's just not worth it.

"Border Force officers will continue to work diligently to keep our border secure and to make life as tough as possible for those who seek to profit from this evil trade."