Trio accused over drug importing

A trial is scheduled for March

Two men, including a former policeman, have appeared in court accused of being involved in a cocaine smuggling operation.

David Cheney, 55, of no fixed address, and Sultan Merchant, 50, of Leicester, denied conspiring to import the drug.

The pair are alleged to have been involved in organising the operation and it is claimed they were caught on film as they discussed the deal.

A third man, Albert Orchison, 68, of Braunstone Frith, Leicester, is said to have been employed as a courier.

Stroke victim

He was also due to have appeared before Leicester Crown Court on Monday but is in hospital after suffering a stroke last month.

All three men are alleged to have plotted to import the drug into the country on dates between 9 July and 20 October last year.

Former university lecturer Mr Merchant and ex-policeman Mr Cheney were remanded in custody for a proposed trial date in March.

It is thought Mr Orchison, a former Leicester City Council worker, will be well enough to attend court by then.