A British former flight attendant, Charlotte May Lee, has found herself embroiled in a serious legal situation in Sri Lanka after allegedly attempting to smuggle £1.2 million worth of cannabis, specifically 46kg of “kush,” into the country. The 21-year-old from Coulsdon, South London, was arrested upon her arrival in Colombo on May 11 after a flight from Bangkok, Thailand.
During a court appearance, Lee became emotional as she faced charges that could lead to a 25-year prison sentence. CCTV footage captured her in a white dress being escorted to a prison van, with police authorities continuing their investigation into the matter.
Lee claims she was unaware of the drugs in her luggage, insisting she had packed her bags in haste after a night out in Bangkok. She alleges that the drugs were planted, stating, “I had never seen them before,” and expressed frustration with the conditions of her confinement, which included crowded conditions and a lack of basic necessities.
Describing her imprisonment, Lee reported difficulties accessing adequate food, saying, “I’ve not eaten in two days because the food is just too spicy for me.” She has also mentioned challenges with food security due to her dietary restrictions, as well as the harsh living conditions of being confined to a concrete floor without access to her ADHD medication.
Despite her challenging circumstances, Lee is attempting to remain optimistic. “I am trying my best to stay positive because what else can you do?” she remarked. The Foreign Office in the UK is reportedly in contact with local authorities and Lee’s family, providing some level of support.
This case has attracted attention due to the scale of the drugs involved, with officials pointing out that it represents the largest amount of kush ever detected at the airport since its opening.
Lee’s situation highlights the complexities and risks associated with international travel, particularly regarding legal and personal safety in foreign countries. While facing a dire legal battle, her resilience and determination to stay positive could inspire others in similarly difficult situations.