Former UK Asda Manager Jailed 20 Months Smuggling 30kg Cannabis

Louisa De Marco, a 53-year-old former Asda manager, was sentenced to 20 months in prison after attempting to smuggle over 31 kilograms of cannabis into the UK via Manchester Airport. She was intercepted by Border Force officers upon arrival from Thailand, where two suitcases containing the Class B drug were found, despite her denial of ownership and claims that the cases contained tobacco. De Marco admitted to being involved in the smuggling operation, which she was introduced to during a previous trip to Thailand, and was offered £10,000 for the job, though she never received the payment. Her defense cited financial hardship following job loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as physical and mental health issues, and alleged intimidation from handlers coercing her to proceed. However, the judge emphasized that De Marco embarked on the scheme with full awareness, describing the offense as serious and noting her deliberate involvement. The case highlights ongoing issues with drug smuggling and the exploitation of individuals facing economic and personal vulnerabilities.