Several workers at a lumber yard at Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo, were taken into custody following the discovery of a quantity of cocaine in several pieces of lumber that were being prepared for export.

The bust was made by members of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit late on Friday afternoon, after receiving a tip about the operation.

Upon their arrival at the lumber yard, a consignment of lumber was being processed to be transported; and upon inspection, the cocaine was found neatly packed among the lumber.

The ranks immediately shut down operations and began their investigations. Further checks unearthed several other packets of the illegal substance.

The workers were questioned and based on reports gathered, the bust may be connected to persons linked to the local racing fraternity. Attempts to contact officials of CANU proved futile. Investigations are ongoing.