The two Panamanians who are charged with the alleged importation of drugs have had their assets frozen by the Magistrates' Court.

The compilation of evidence continued this morning. The two, Lorena Vanessa Hernandez Munoz, 21, and Hector Antonio Montenegro Martinez, 20, had denied the importation of more than 11 kilograms of cocaine found hidden in their luggage during a search at Malta International Airport.

During the compilation of evidence, a custom’s department officer said that he became suspicious of the case being carried by Mr Martinez. He then emptied the suitcase of clothes and it still felt heavy. As such, the officials used a knife and opened what they described as a hidden compartment, which resulted in white powder leaking out.

The two stand charged with conspiring to import and deal in drugs, possession of cocaine in circumstances denoting it was not for personal use and importing cocaine

The court heard how police officers were then called on scene, and two passports as well as EF confirmation letters were found. The police then headed to Villa Rosa beach garden, where Ms Munoz was staying.

Her room was searched, and when examining her suitcase, another false compartment was found containing white powder, police officer Therese Vella told the Court.

Inspectors Jonathan Cassar and Nikolai Sant prosecuted. Dr Abigail Bugeja represented the defence. Magistrate Neville Camilleri presided.