Federal prosecutors arrested a 22-year-old man from Guyana for allegedly attempting to smuggle cocaine into the United States at John F. Kennedy International Airport on Friday. The accused, identified as Zacharie Scott, had ingeniously hidden the illicit substance inside bags purportedly filled with jumbo shrimp.

Customs Screening Unveils Cocaine Stash

Upon arrival, Scott underwent the standard customs screening process, which led to a closer inspection of his luggage. Customs and Border Protection officers discovered that the two suitcases, initially believed to contain nothing more than clothing, held an unexpected secret. Cloaked within sealed plastic were multiple packages of frozen jumbo shrimp. Authorities promptly subjected the packages to scrutiny, revealing a white, powdery substance that tested positive for cocaine.

Quantity Seized and Arrest Details

Officers seized approximately 18.45 kilograms of cocaine from the disguised shrimp packages. Scott, a U.S. citizen residing in Guyana, allegedly confessed to the smuggling operation. According to federal prosecutors, he admitted agreeing to transport the drugs into the country for a fee ranging between USD 5,000 and USD 6,000. The accused is currently in custody and is scheduled for a bail hearing on Tuesday.

Legal Proceedings and Public Defender’s Silence

As the case unfolds, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York is expected to spearhead legal proceedings against Scott. However, a request for comment from Scott’s public defender, regarding the charges, was not immediately returned on Saturday.