Missing Belfast woman arrested in Peru over drug trafficking

The Department of Foreign Affairs is providing consular assistance to the family of Michaella McCollum Connolly, the 20 year old from Belfast who's being held in Peru on suspicion of smuggling drugs.

20 year-old Michaella McCollum Connolly was reported missing after moving to Ibiza, following 11 days of no contact with her family.

A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed today that all lines of communication concerning Michaella's situation is taking place through the Mexican Embassy, the nearest embassy to Peru.

The 20-year-old from Belfast and a 19-year-old girl from Britain were detained by drug police on Tuesday at Jorge Chavez airport in Peru, after their luggage was searched while waiting at a check-in desk.

They were waiting at the Air-Europa desk organising their luggage to prepare for their travels to Madrid and then on to Mallorca.

According to the website of the National Police of Peru, more than 11kg of cocaine was allegedly discovered in their luggage hidden in food sachets.

Consular help, which also includes support for Michaella's family has been provided. It's not yet known when or if her family with make the trip to Peru.