Suriname police make record drug bust

Paramaribo(Suriname), Jan 9 (AFP) Suriname police have made the biggest drug seizure in the tiny South American country's history, authorities said on Wednesday after more than 2,000 kilograms of cocaine were reportedly found.

"The biggest bust ever was around 1,300 kilograms and this is likely to be more," said Roy Baidjnath Panday, Suriname's prosecutor general.

Local media reports claim 2,300 kilograms worth around 100 million euros (USD 115 million) were seized on Tuesday at the Jules Sedney port in the capital Paramaribo.

The drugs were hidden between sacks of rice and destined for the French oversees territory of Guadeloupe, from where they were to be exported to the French mainland.

Police have arrested Nitender Oemrawsingh, owner of the Nivash Rice Company responsible for the shipment.

The customs clearance officer has also been detained.

The drug haul comes less than two weeks after police seized a submersible vessel built by traffickers.

Seven Colombians and a Cuban were detained.

Last year police intercepted a Brazilian plane with 500 kilograms of cocaine on board. (AFP) SMJ

SMJ