British Teen Faces Life in Georgian Prison Over Alleged Drug Smuggling
Bella Culley, an 18-year-old from Billingham, Teesside, has been arrested in Tbilisi, Georgia, on serious drug-related charges after arriving from Thailand.
According to Georgian police, Culley was taken into custody at Tbilisi International Airport after authorities discovered 12kg of marijuana and over 2kg of hashish in her travel bag. If convicted, she could face up to 20 years in prison—or even life imprisonment under Georgia’s tough anti-drug laws.
Culley had recently been reported missing in Thailand, prompting concern from her family, who are now being supported by the UK Foreign Office.
She appeared in court earlier this week and was remanded to a female-only pre-trial detention facility in Rustavi. Her court-appointed lawyer, Ia Todua, described Culley as visibly distressed and reluctant to speak.
“She was so tense—just a child, really,” Todua said. “She chose to remain silent when asked to testify.”
Authorities say the arrest came as part of a coordinated operation involving multiple agencies. Official charges include the illegal purchase, possession, and importation of a large quantity of narcotics.
A police spokesperson confirmed the charges and released blurred images of Culley being escorted into custody—a routine practice in Georgia to protect suspect identities.
While FIFA and other high-profile events are drawing attention to Georgia and the wider region, this case highlights the risks associated with international drug trafficking and the severe consequences individuals can face abroad.
The UK’s Cleveland Police also acknowledged the case, confirming the identity and circumstances of the arrest.
As of now, Bella Culley remains in custody while legal proceedings continue. Additional lawyers are reportedly preparing to join her defense, and consular officials are expected to meet with her in the coming days.
