their workplace through what is understood to be a joint effort between local and overseas crime busters.

Police swooped on Hamilton office supplies' firm Staples Ltd. last Tuesday at 9.30 a.m. and allegedly found what is suspected to be cannabis stuffed inside a shipment of computer hardware from the US.

Four people were arrested but were not charged as of Friday. A Police spokeswoman was unable to provide any further information or details about the incident as of late yesterday.

The Royal Gazette understands that local narcotics officers were assisted in their investigation by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency.

And Home Affairs Minister Quinton Edness said: "I believe that is correct but it is too early to comment on this particular case itself as the investigation is ongoing.'' He added: "The Bermudian public can be reassured that under the leadership of Acting Commissioner Jean-Jacques Lemay and his team, that they are carrying on and are out to catch some of the big guys, the drug importers.

"Their relationship with the DEA is intact and tremendous cooperation is taking place.'' Undercover DEA officers took part in Operation Cleansweep last year.

More than 20 people were arrested and charged as a result of the drug sting which saw the undercover agents videotape alleged drug transactions.

And the DEA put the mechanics in place for Bermuda to receive a surplus 48-foot offshore motor launch to aid the local Police Force in its attempts to thwart the drug trade into the Island.