Less than two months since it went online the new X-ray scanner on the Hamilton docks has netted sizeable quantities of controlled drugs.While reluctant to discuss specifics, National Security Minister Wayne Perinchief confirmed that at least one major arrest was made last month.“The X-ray machine is paying dividends,” said the Minister.“I will just say without going far that a recent arrest where eight people were arrested was due in great part to that X-ray machine.”The seven men and the woman arrested on conspiracy to import controlled drug charges were released on bail last week in a joint raid by police and customs officers.The suspects range in age from 32 to 71 years, the woman arrested is 47 years old. According to a police spokesman, court appearances are expected in due course.The arrests were made at a private residence on Limehouse Lane, in Hamilton Parish, during the early morning hours on Friday, November 30.Said Mr Perinchief: “As that case unfolds you will see just how important that machine was. It involves steel, and steel is almost impenetrable to ordinary surveillance it’s very powerful.“I wouldn’t want to be in the same room when its operating — X-rays that go through steel,” he added.The machine was cleared for use after installation on the docks to scan containers imported into Bermuda in October. The move was part of Government’s reorganisation plan for border controls to help crack down on crime.The installation and final testing was led by the Government Procurement Office.