Two British women are currently in Jamaica awaiting sentencing after being found guilty of attempting to smuggle cocaine out of the country.

Genevieve Sanoussi and Teraiya Stapleton were convicted in January 2026 after more than 5lbs of cocaine was discovered hidden inside trainers packed in their luggage at the airport in October 2024. The pair had travelled to the island for what was meant to be a one-week holiday but were stopped before clearing security while queuing at the airline desk to return to the UK.

During a search of their bags, narcotics were found concealed inside multiple pairs of trainers they had agreed to carry. Authorities subsequently charged both women with attempting to smuggle cocaine out of Jamaica. Under Jamaican law, drug trafficking offences carry severe penalties, with the women now facing a minimum sentence of six years’ imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for March 2026.

Both women have consistently maintained their innocence, stating they had no knowledge that drugs were hidden inside the shoes. Their families argue that they were not adequately represented during trial proceedings and claim key evidence was not presented in court. Concerns have also been raised publicly about aspects of the legal process.

The pair have remained in Jamaica since their arrest in October 2024, navigating court delays and bail conditions that prevented them from leaving the island.

The case gained significant traction online after Teraiya’s mother brought the story to TikTok, prompting widespread discussion and debate. Supporters have since launched a petition on Change.org calling for a further review of the conviction, while a separate fundraising effort has been set up to assist with mounting legal costs as the families prepare to pursue an appeal.

As they await sentencing next month, the case continues to divide opinion. While some emphasise the seriousness of international drug offences, others question whether the full circumstances surrounding the trip were properly examined, and a number of commentators remain sceptical about aspects of the details presented so far.

‍