abc journalist peter lloyd faces drug charges

By staff writers and wires | July 18, 2008
THE ABC's South Asia correspondent Peter Lloyd is facing drugs charges after being arrested in Singapore.

The 41-year-old was arrested earlier this week and is expected to be charged with drug-related offences today.

He faces up to 20 years jail and 15 strokes of the cane if found guilty of drug charges.

Police from Singapore's Central Narcotics Bureau arrested Lloyd on Wednesday.

He is accused of supplying a Singapore man with methamphetamine, or ice.

An ABC spokesman said Lloyd was in Singapore on leave from his post in New Delhi.

"We currently are seeking further information and are in contact with consular officials in Singapore," the spokesman said.

ABC director of news John Cameron said the broadcaster had been advised by Foreign Affairs that Lloyd had been arrested was likely to be charged with drug-related offences.

"The ABC has not been told the full details of the case, but we were aware that Peter had been undergoing hospital treatment in Singapore for a serious eye infection which he contracted while on leave."

The ABC was in close contact with consular officials and was taking steps to ensure Lloyd was given appropriate legal representation.

A Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesman said the Australian High Commission in Singapore was helping Lloyd.

- With AAP