An Italian man was arrested as he was about to embark on the catamaran in Pozzallo, on his way to Malta, with 15 kilogrammes of hashish, Italian media report today.

The 47-year-old was apprehended with the drug which was being transported in blocks sealed in plastic.

The man was taken to Ragusa for further questioning.

Italian media report that the value of the drugs seized is around €150,000.