Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, a former soccer player for Premier League club Arsenal, has been arrested in connection with the attempted importation of cannabis worth $795,300 (£600,000) at a British airport. The 33-year-old man was detained in Gourock, Scotland, on suspicion of orchestrating the drug importation through London's Stansted Airport.
Emmanuel-Thomas, who also played for Ipswich Town, was recently with Scottish second-tier club Greenock Morton. However, his contract was terminated by the club following the arrest. He appeared in court in Carlisle, England, accused of importing class B drugs. His bail was refused, and he is set to appear in Carlisle Crown Court on October 18.
The arrest of Emmanuel-Thomas is linked to the earlier arrest of two women, aged 28 and 32, who were caught with around 60kg of cannabis at Stansted Airport. Both women were charged with drug importation offenses and are due to appear in court on October 1.
The National Crime Agency (NCA) emphasized its commitment to combating drug smuggling, warning individuals about the severe consequences of engaging in such activities. The maximum sentence for cannabis importation in the UK is up to 14 years in prison.
Emmanuel-Thomas, who began his career in Arsenal's academy, has also played for clubs like Bristol City, Queens Park Rangers, and Cardiff City. He signed a six-month deal with Greenock Morton in July but has now faced legal troubles due to the drug-related allegations.
