A Dutch national who arrived in Malta yesterday was charged trafficking cocaine after he was found to be hiding a package of the drug in his underwear. 

Melvin Nunes, a 36-year-old Dutch citizen from Suriname, was arraigned before magistrate Elaine Mercieca on Wednesday.

Nunes told the court that he was in the process of moving to Malta and is trying to find a job on the island. Inspector Marshall Mallia, who arraigned Nunes, told the court that the man was arrested on the 6th of September at 0030hrs.

Upon arrival, police discovered a small sachet of cannabis on his person, which Nunes claimed to have been for personal use. However, a full body search revealed 300 grams of cocaine, wrapped in tape and strapped to his private parts. 

During the interrogation, Nunes confirmed that this was not the first time he did this, but he plead not guilty to the charges. 

Defence lawyer Cynthia Tomasuolo declared that the accused would not be making a bail request at this stage. As the prosecution had also requested a freezing order, the defence lawyer asked what assets the police were referring to as Nunes had no ties to Malta. Inspector Mallia clarified that he was requesting a general freezing order under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance.

The request was upheld by the court, prohibiting the accused from transferring, selling or disposing of any of his assets. He was remanded in custody until his case was assigned a sitting date. 

#MaltaDaily