British teen arrested in Georgia for drug smuggling charges

In May 2025, Bella Culley, a 19-year-old from Billingham, England, was arrested at Tbilisi International Airport after arriving in Georgia. She was accused of attempting to smuggle drugs, specifically 12 kilograms of marijuana and 2 kilograms of hashish, into the country. The case has drawn significant media attention due to the severe nature of the charges and the young age of the defendant. Following her arrest, a Georgian court ruled to keep Culley in custody as the investigation continues. This ruling was announced during a court hearing held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, where it was revealed that she pleaded not guilty to the charges due to claims of coercion and alleged torture during her time in Thailand, where she is said to have acquired the drugs. The Georgian prosecutors are currently working to identify any accomplices involved in the case, highlighting the broader implications of international drug smuggling operations and the legal consequences that follow. Culley's lawyer, Malkhaz Salakaia, stated that his client exhibited visible signs of torture upon her return to Georgia, reinforcing her claims of being forced to transport the drugs under duress. The gravity of drug smuggling charges in Georgia is notable, with potential prison sentences reaching up to 20 years or even life imprisonment. Consequently, the legal framework surrounding drug offenses in the country is stringent, adding to the complexities of Culley's situation. Despite the challenging circumstances, her family remains supportive, with her mother attending hearings and expressing concern for her wellbeing during this harrowing ordeal. Bella's journey started after completing her education at Middlesbrough College, leading her to travel through Southeast Asia, including a stint in the Philippines. The timeline of events suggests that her travel plans rapidly shifted, and after a brief period in Thailand, she was apprehended upon her arrival in Georgia. According to reports, Culley had decided to visit friends made during previous trips to the region, but the outcome of this seemingly casual trip turned dire with her arrest and subsequent legal battles ahead. The next court date is set for September 2, 2025, marking a crucial step in the unfolding legal narrative surrounding this case, as the world watches closely to understand the implications of international drug laws and their impact on individuals caught in complex situations such as this. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers associated with international travel and the risks posed by entanglement in drug trafficking networks. As Bella Culley's trial approaches, it remains to be seen how the Georgian judicial system will handle the case amidst growing scrutiny and calls for justice, which will play a significant role in establishing a clearer narrative around her involvement and the truth behind her claims.