LANCASHIRE police chiefs have launched an investigation following the arrest of a former Blackpool policeman in India for drug smuggling.

PC Shabir Rehman Abdul Mubarak, now based at Leyland, was arrested with four other men at Bombay Airport on Saturday (February 20) accused of trying to smuggle almost £1 million of "superior quality" heroin out of the country.

Indian authorities alleged PC Mubarak tried to use his Lancashire Constabulary warrant card to get the drugs past officials.

It is also alleged that PC Mubarak confessed to smuggling drugs from India for two years and he will appear before Mumbai Court, Bombay, on Monday.

The officer worked in central Blackpool police station from January 1994 to October 1996.

He is now based at Leyland police station but has been on sick leave from the force for almost a year after suffering a heart attack.

Police have confirmed that PC Mubarak is currently receiving a small allowance but no pay.

A spokesman said: "Whatever discredit is brought upon the individual, it should not deflect from the excellent achievements attained by all members of the Lancashire Constabulary in tackling crime and drug-related problems."

PC Mubarak was one of the founder members of the Black Police Federation, who have this week expressed their concern that he may not get a fair trial.

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