Cans in which opium was found
Photo courtesy of Israel Police
Iranian Jew suspected of smuggling opium into Israel
Man caught with 32 pounds of opium, says drugs meant for his personal use; his wife, son released from custody
The remand of an Iranian Jew who is suspected of trying to smuggle opium into Israel in tin cans was extended by six days on Thursday.
The suspect and his family landed at Ben Gurion Airport Wednesday night, and according to police they were carrying the largest amount of drugs seized in recent years.
Police launched an investigation some three months ago after being tipped off on the possibility of a smuggling attempt, and the main suspect was apprehended along with his wife and son while in possession of 14.5 kilograms (about 32 pounds) of pure opium.
The wife and son were released from custody and are staying with relatives in Ashdod.
During a hearing at the Ashkelon Magistrates' Court, the man admitted to transporting the opium, but said it was meant for his personal use, adding that it was legal in Iran.
Police are currently checking whether criminal elements in Israel had ordered the opium. Police representatives rejected the suspect's claim, saying he planned on selling the opium.
