Greek US-based billionaire Alkiviades “Alki” David, 50, was arrested on the Caribbean Island of Saint Kitts after a search of his private jet uncovered more than 5,000 cannabis plants worth $1.3 million. The heir to the Coca-Cola fortune was arrested at the Robert L Bradshaw International Airport and charged with the intent to supply, possession of controlled drugs and importation of controlled drugs. The St Christopher and Nevis Police Force confirmed the charges with the Daily Express.

The Vancouver Sun reported that the Anti-Narcotics Unit found the plants along with seeds and a variety of other cannabis products. David claimed that the products on  board were related to a new business venture to start a legal cannabis business in the region.

David and Chase Ergen, the heir to the satellite fortune, had announced in April that they would create a consortium to operate in the Eastern Caribbean around St Kitts Nevis, Dominica and Antigua. The venture, modelled after the ones in Switzerland, would create thousands of jobs and there have also been meetings with business and government leaders in the region.