In what has been described as the largest Class A drugs seizure in Northern Ireland, a man has appeared in court. The National Crime Agency (NCA) confiscated 185kg of suspected cocaine at Belfast Port, with an estimated street value of £18.5m. The seizure occurred during routine checks, leading to the arrest of 55-year-old Bulgarian national Giorgio Panchukov by NCA officers.
Appearing before Belfast Magistrates’ Court, Panchukov faced charges of aiding and abetting the importation of Class A drugs, along with additional counts related to possessing and being involved in the supply of cocaine. With an address in the Bulgarian city of Burgas, Panchukov acknowledged the charges during the brief court hearing. The NCA officer involved in the case revealed that the drugs were hidden in the container area of a lorry destined for a ferry to Scotland.
Although no bail application was submitted, defense barrister Sean O’Hare requested an evaluation of the seized drugs’ value. District Judge Steven Keown decided to adjourn the case, ordering Panchukov to remain in custody until 18 June. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat drug trafficking and illicit activities within the region
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