Meanwhile, Powell's lawyer Clayton Morgan declared that his client had received the tins from a third party, and that she was actively prepared to assist the police in pursuing the individual.

Morgan also noted that Powell, a diabetes and hypertension sufferer, has no prior police record and is willing to comply with any conditions stipulated by the court.

RM Harris offered each of the defendants $500,000 bail with three sureties and made stop-orders for both of them, and both were also ordered to surrender their travel documents. Nembhard is to reside at Annotto Bay, St Mary, with relatives, and must report to the Annotto Bay Police Station every Tuesday and Friday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Nembhard and Powell are to return before the court on October 7, at which time the forensic certificate and statements in the case are expected to be on file.

Allegations are that on August 27, Nembhard was boarding a flight to England at the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay when his luggage was subjected to a routine check.

Four tins of instant chocolate were found in his bags, and when one of them was opened, a white powdery substance resembling cocaine was discovered. Nembhard was then taken to the Narcotics office, where the other three tins were opened and cocaine-like substance found in each.

Under questioning, Nembhard told the authorities that Powell had given the tins to him to take to his cousin. Both accused were subsequently arrested and charged.