BBC News
·Jul 2026
Drug mules flooding north of England face tougher penalties
British drug couriers smuggling cannabis from Thailand face stricter penalties, including fines of 30,000 baht per kilogram and possible jail sentences, under new Thai enforcement rules supported by UK authorities. The National Crime Agency reports a sharp rise in smuggling attempts as gangs exploit demand for high‑potency cannabis in northern England. Joint efforts between the NCA, Thai Customs and the Home Office aim to curb the growing trade, with hundreds of couriers arrested and cannabis seizures reaching record levels. Updated UK travel advice warns travellers of severe consequences for involvement in trafficking.