Gourock, Scotland – Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, a 33-year-old striker for Greenock Morton, has been arrested in connection with orchestrating the importation of drugs into the UK. The former Arsenal and Queens Park Rangers player was detained at his home in Gourock, near Glasgow, on Wednesday. He has since been transported to Carlisle for questioning by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and is expected to appear before Carlisle Magistrates Court on Thursday.
Emmanuel-Thomas faces charges of importing class B drugs following a major seizure of cannabis valued at approximately £600,000. The NCA uncovered 60 kilograms of cannabis concealed in two suitcases arriving at Stansted Airport from Bangkok, Thailand. The discovery has been described as part of an ongoing investigation into international drug smuggling networks.
In a statement, David Phillips, a senior investigating officer with the NCA, emphasized the agency’s commitment to dismantling smuggling operations. “The NCA continues to work with partners like Border Force to target those involved in drug smuggling – that includes both the couriers and the organisers,” Phillips said. He also warned potential couriers of the life-changing risks they face if caught engaging in smuggling activities.
Two women, aged 28 and 32, were arrested at Stansted Airport earlier this month in connection with the same drug seizure. Both were charged with drug importation offences and appeared before Chelmsford Magistrates Court. They have been bailed pending a hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on October 1.
The arrest of Emmanuel-Thomas comes amid increased efforts by the NCA to clamp down on drug trafficking, particularly from countries like Thailand, Canada, and the United States. The agency recently issued a warning to travellers after a surge in cannabis seizures, noting that the amount of the drug confiscated so far in 2024 had already surpassed three times the total for 2023.
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, who signed a six-month contract with Greenock Morton in July, has previously played for a host of clubs, including Livingston, Aberdeen, Ipswich Town, Bristol City, and Thai club PTT Rayong. He has also represented England at the under-17 and under-19 levels during his career.
If found guilty of drug importation, Emmanuel-Thomas could face a prison sentence of up to 14 years under UK law.