A Virgin Atlantic passenger was arrested at Miami International Airport (MIA) this week after Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers discovered 65 pounds of marijuana packed into two suitcases.
The London-bound traveler, 22-year-old Begum Mulazimoglu, was taken into custody after the powerful odor of marijuana was detected during baggage screening. X-ray inspections revealed 60 vacuum-packed bundles—30 in each suitcase. The bags also contained Apple AirTags, a tracking method sometimes used by traffickers.
Mulazimoglu, a London resident, claimed ownership of the suitcases and was found carrying roughly $1,000 in cash in both US dollars and British pounds. She has been charged with a first-degree felony under Florida law, which carries a minimum prison sentence of three years for drug trafficking.
Miami-Dade Judge Victoria Sigler presided over the bond hearing. While federal authorities will not pursue prosecution, Florida state law applies in this case.
MIA is a known hub for international drug shipments, and customs officers regularly intercept large quantities of contraband destined for overseas flights.
