By Izzet Taskiran and Halil Demir

ISTANBUL

Turkish police on Wednesday arrested a Venezuelan passenger carrying cocaine in his luggage at Istanbul’s Ataturk Airport, according to a security source.

Anti-drug police found 2.45 kilograms (5.40 pounds) of cocaine hidden in the luggage of the suspect, known by initials F.Y.R.M, said the sources on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on talking to the media.

Police was following the 39-year-old suspect since Dec.18, when he arrived in the country on a charter plane from the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo, the source added. 

The suspect was remanded in custody on drug trafficking charges.