Two men and a woman from Leeds will appear in court next month after large quantities of cocaine were seized from a yacht off Ireland last year
Three more people have been charged over a cocaine yacht bust that saw large quantities of the drug seized from a vessel off Ireland.
Authorities intercepted the yacht Makayabella on its journey from South America in September last year and found a tonne of cocaine on board.
The cargo, which was destined for the UK market, is believed to have had a street value in excess of £100m.
David Webster, aged 44, of Rillmead, Otley, West Yorkshire; Philip McElhone, aged 29, of Freemantle Place, Halton Moor, Leeds; and Dawne Powell, aged 56 of Netherfield Road, Guiseley, Leeds, were charged with conspiracy to import cocaine.
Powell was also charged with money laundering
The National Crime Agency, who lead the investigation, confirmed that all three defendants were remanded and are due to appear at Leeds Crown Court on 8 April.
The successful mission last year was completed based on intelligence provided by the National Crime Agency in the UK and the French customs service DNRED.
Investigators also seized a 25ft motorboat Sea Breeze, moored in north Wales as part of their enquiries.
Two other men are awaiting trial in Ireland, while a third was jailed for 16 years for his part in the drug smuggling plot.