1.5-ton cocaine haul found in Venezuelan lorry

Venezuelan National Guard troops have seized a shipment of 1.4 metric tons (1.5 tons) of cocaine stashed in a compartment in a cargo truck.

Justice Minister Nestor Reverol announced Sunday’s bust on television, saying the truck was stopped at a checkpoint in western Lara state.

He said the cocaine came from neighbouring Colombia and the Venezuelan driver was arrested.

Officials showed the truck with its side cut open to reveal a compartment behind the cab where the cocaine was hidden.

Venezuela has been a major route for cocaine trafficking in recent years. US and Colombian officials have said a majority of northbound smuggling flights originate in the country.

Mr Reverol said the bust is one of many that have shown his government’s commitment to combatting the flow of drugs.