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Vancouver performer accused of drug smuggling after arrest in Japan

Jan 5, 2018 | 11:15 AM

NARITA, Japan — A Vancouver-area resident is in custody in Japan, accused of smuggling nearly 10 kilograms of drugs into the country.

A statement from Tokyo Customs says Daniel Whitmore was arrested at Narita Airport on Dec. 11 after arriving on a flight from Vancouver.

The email statement says that 9,801 grams of methamphetamine was seized after being found in a guitar case and canisters of tea that allegedly belonged to Whitmore.

Details of the arrest were not released until late December.

Whitmore is the lead singer for the Vancouver-based Iron Maiden tribute band Powerclown, and the band says in a message on its Facebook page that they are hoping for the best for their bandmate. 

The Government of Canada website for travellers says suspects in Japan can be held for up to 23 days without charges, police questioning can begin without a lawyer present and the conviction rate, once indicted, is above 99 per cent.

 

The Canadian Press