Various media have reported that more than 30 air hostesses and stewards from French Polynesia’s international flag carrier, Air Tahiti Nui, are facing drug smuggling charges and are scheduled to appear in court in Papeete in September.
Police said that the crew were interviewed as part of an inquiry on a suspected drug trafficking ring which is believed to have been operating for the past three years, mainly between French Polynesia and Los Angeles, a major destination for the Air Tahiti Nui.
They added that an investigation is being carried out with the help of French customs in Tahiti with the 33 staff suspected of taking an active part in the importation of a variety of drugs such as ice, cocaine, marijuana and ecstasy, allegedly acquired while transiting in Los Angeles.
It is alleged some of the drugs were used for private consumption and some were smuggled into French Polynesia and re-sold to local dealers, allegedly at up to 15 times their purchase price.
Air Tahiti Nui issued a release saying the company has withdrawn the accused staff from service and initiated disciplinary measures, with flights not affected.
The two unions representing Air Tahiti Nui staff have threatened to go on strike after the airline employees were suspended, with the unions saying the airline management has used an abusive procedure against the more than 30.
The unions also say the airline has acted in haste and illegally as the suspects are to be presumed innocent and while they deplore the use of drugs on board the aircraft, young men and women are being thrown out as fodder for public opinion.
Report by The Mole
