Batley man charged after heroin seizure at Heathrow Airport

Adeem Maqbool, 37, was stopped in Terminal 2 after he arrived on a flight from Pakistan via Istanbul on Sunday September 21.

Officers discovered the drugs in a large holdall and tests are now being carried out to determine the purity and value of the heroin.

Maqbool, of West Street, Batley, appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates Court on today charged with the attempted importation of a Class A drug. He was remanded in custody until his next appearance at Isleworth Crown Court on October 9.

Following the seizure by Border Force, the investigation and prosecution are being carried out by the National Crime Agency.

Marc Owen, Border Force Heathrow director, said: “Border Force officers like those who made this seizure play a crucial role in protecting the UK from illegal drugs and other contraband.

“Working with law enforcement colleagues like the NCA we are determined to do all we can to prevent drug trafficking and put those responsible behind bars.”

Anyone with information about activity they suspect may be linked to smuggling should call our hotline on 0800 59 5000.