OFFICER ARRESTED ON DRUG CHARGES

A serving Bermuda Police officer was arrested yesterday on drugs
charges and is expected to appear in court this week.

At a press conference yesterday, Police refused to disclose any
further details, but said an investigation launched last year after
allegations were made against a number of Police officers is still
ongoing.

The investigation began last year after a member of the public made
corruption allegations against members of the Narcotics Department.

Assistant Commissioner Carlton Adams said yesterday: "I have an
update on a significant development in our investigation into
allegations made against a number of Police Officers.

"That investigation was commenced in August 2001 and that matter has
been diligently pursued by a Detective Chief Inspector and a number
of Police officers from that time to the present.

"Today, at 12 noon, a serving Police officer was arrested at Hamilton
Police Station in connection with offences against the Misuse of
Drugs Act 1972, and following consultations with the Director of
Public Prosecutions, a court appearance is anticipated in the near
future."

Mr. Adams would not elaborate on his statement, but he did say the
"investigation is ongoing".

When asked if he was concerned that such allegations had been made
against serving officers, he said: "Certainly, but I stand behind the
integrity of the Officers of the Bermuda Police Service."