Five foreign nationals were arrested by the police following an investigation and surveillance on a residence in Manikata, in connection with alleged drug trafficking and possession.

Investigations revealed that the residence was being used for criminal activities related to drugs, the police said Thursday. Surveillance noted suspicious movements at particular times of the day, while individuals were observed cultivating several plants suspected to be cannabis.

Consequently, on Tuesday, the police carried out an operation at the residence, during which five individuals were arrested - three Romanian men, two aged 37 and another aged 39, a 36-year-old Lebanese man, and a 30-year-old Italian woman.

During the search, a substantial amount of different drugs was found, including MDMA pills, ecstasy, LSD, cocaine, as well as cannabis resin and plants. Cash and electronic equipment were also seized.

While police investigations into the case are still ongoing, Magistrate Dr Philip Galea Farrugia LL.D is leading an inquiry.

Later today, at around noon (1200hrs), the accused are expected to be arraigned in court before Magistrate Dr Yana Micallef Stafrace LL.D.