A pensioner has denied smuggling a large stash of cocaine into the country through Heathrow airport.

Vincent Ruocco of Manchester appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates on November 6, and pleaded not guilty to importation of a class A drug.

The 73-year-old has been remanded in custody until his next appearance at Isleworth Crown Court on November 20.

Ruocco of Birchenhall Street, Moston, was stopped by border officers on November 5, after he landed at the airport off a flight from Togo.                     

Approximately two and a half kilos of cocaine was seized from the lining of a suitcase which tested positive for the substance.

Forensic tests were due to be carried out to establish the purity and potential street value of the drugs.

The investigation and prosecution are being carried out by the National Crime Agency’s (NCA) Border Policing Command.

Marc Owen, Border Force Heathrow director, said: “This was an excellent seizure and I would like to pay tribute to the Border Force officers who play a crucial role in protecting the UK from illegal drugs every day.

“We work closely with law enforcement colleagues, including the NCA, to prevent drug trafficking and do all we can to put those responsible behind bars.”

Anyone with information about smuggling activities should call 0800 59 5000.