stash of cocaine into the Island.

American-born Toni Downing, 33, and UK-born Dawnette Reid, 34, who both now reside in Toronto, Canada, were stopped by Customs officers at the Bermuda International Airport after arriving on a flight from New York on Friday evening.

They were subsequently arrested by Police following a search of their luggage.

After spending the weekend in custody both women appeared before Senior Magistrate Will Francis yesterday afternoon. The pair each face two charges of importing cocaine and possessing cocaine with intent to supply.

Although no official quantity was stated when the charges were read out, The Royal Gazette understands that the recovered stash could have a street value of up to $500,000.

Both Downing and Reid looked in a state of complete shock during their brief court appearance, but were not required to say anything other than confirm their names.

Neither womens' defence lawyers -- Mark Pettingill representing Downing and Elizabeth Christopher for Reid -- applied for bail and both accused were remanded in custody until May 10.

DRUGS DGS