DUBLIN, Ireland- Irish authorities have seized more than five kilogrammes of cocaine disguised as lollipops at Dublin Airport.
Revenue officers discovered the drugs after stopping and searching the luggage of a passenger who had arrived on a flight from Brazil.
The cocaine, valued at approximately €500,000, was concealed inside bags containing what appeared to be ordinary lollipops, according to Irish authorities.
A man in his 60s was arrested by members of An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s national police service, following the discovery.
He was subsequently charged in connection with the seizure.
Follow-up searches conducted by police resulted in the recovery of €16,000 in cash.
Officers also seized additional controlled drugs estimated to be worth €14,500.
Authorities did not immediately disclose the identity or nationality of the suspect. Details of the charges filed against him were also not released.
Investigations into the suspected drug-trafficking operation are continuing.
The seizure is the latest case involving drugs concealed in food products or everyday consumer goods to avoid detection at airports.
Irish customs officers conduct checks on passengers and luggage entering the country as part of ongoing operations targeting organised criminal groups involved in importing and distributing illegal drugs.
Authorities have not said whether other suspects are being sought or where the cocaine was intended to be distributed.
The suspect is expected to appear before an Irish court to face the charges.
