Ahmed Hirsi, a 46-year-old Somalian national, was apprehended at Newcastle International Airport while attempting to smuggle 61 kg of khat valued at £18,390. Despite claiming it was for personal use, the court found this improbable, suggesting he was part of a larger operation as he was unemployed and struggling financially. Hirsi, who has lived in the UK for 21 years and has five children in Somalia, received an eight-month suspended jail sentence and must comply with a curfew and pay prosecution costs.
A court heard that 46-year-old Ahmed Hirsi was caught at Newcastle Airport with 61 kg of khat, valued at £18,390, during his journey from Johannesburg.
Recorder Thomas Moran expressed disbelief over Hirsi's claims that the drugs were for personal use, indicating he was likely recruited by more sophisticated criminals.
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