A Northern Ireland-based lorry driver has appeared in court charged in connection with a £6.8 million cocaine seizure.
Edgaras Slusnys (37), from Lithuania, but who has been living in Northern Ireland, was arrested by National Crime Agency officers on Friday after his lorry was stopped in Liverpool.
The NCA said that 136 kilos of cocaine was recovered from within a sophisticated hide in the rear doors of the lorry’s trailer, which when cut would have a street value of £6.8 million.
The truck, registered with a Northern Ireland-based haulier, was searched with assistance from Merseyside Police and Border Force.
NCA Branch Commander David Cunningham said: “This seizure has dealt a significant blow to an organised crime gang, and removed a substantial quantity of dangerous drugs from the streets.
"The investigation continues to identify and bring to justice all those involved.”
Mr Slusnys appeared in court in Liverpool on Monday charged with possession with intent to supply class A drugs.
He was remanded in custody to appear at Liverpool Crown Court on October 23.
