Professional footballer Jay Emmanuel-Thomas has been arrested and sacked from Greenock Morton FC following charges related to orchestrating an attempted drug importation. The 33-year-old striker, who was arrested at his home in Gourock, Scotland, is accused of being involved in a plan to import 60kg of cannabis into the UK.
Emmanuel-Thomas, a former England U-17 and U-19 international, appeared in Carlisle Magistrates’ Court after being detained by officers from the National Crime Agency (NCA). He did not enter a plea, but his lawyer stated that he “strenuously” denies any involvement in the drug operation.
The arrest follows the discovery of four suitcases containing 60kg of cannabis, valued at approximately £600,000, at Stansted Airport. The drugs were flown in from Bangkok, with two women, aged 28 and 32, also arrested in connection with the incident. One of the women is reportedly Emmanuel-Thomas’ partner.
Prosecutor Diane Jackson told the court that the cannabis was divided between the suitcases—29kg in two and 31kg in the others. Phone evidence was gathered, indicating that Emmanuel-Thomas had researched flights and destinations for the women involved, including the airports they were arriving into. The evidence suggests this was not the first time he had arranged similar operations.
Emmanuel-Thomas has been remanded in custody after his bail application was rejected. Following the arrest, Greenock Morton FC terminated his contract with immediate effect. The case has drawn significant attention, especially as Emmanuel-Thomas had a long career with top UK football teams, including Arsenal, QPR, Bristol City, and more recently, in Scotland with Greenock Morton.
The NCA’s investigation is ongoing, and Emmanuel-Thomas is expected to face further court proceedings. He remains eager to clear his name at trial, his lawyer confirmed.