UK raises alarm as drug gangs lure young travellers with luxury holidays

Border Force said criminal gangs “entice victims with promises of free luxury holidays, business-class flights and spending money” before coercing them into carrying cannabis into the UK.” Travellers were also advised to verify the contents of their luggage, avoid carrying bags for other people, ignore suspicious approaches on social media, keep their passports and travel documents in their possession at all times, and remember that importing cannabis into the UK remains a serious criminal offence, regardless of whether it is legal in the country of departure.

The agency warned that anyone caught smuggling cannabis into the UK could be arrested, prosecuted and handed a criminal record, with penalties including prison sentences of up to 14 years and restrictions on future international travel that could affect employment and educational opportunities.