Leeds university ski students could face prison over drug offences in France

More than a dozen University of Leeds students were allegedly arrested in France after cocaine was found on ‘every single seat’ of a coach that took them on a ski trip.

It is believed around 17 members of the Russell Group university were pulled over by police, while one man has been formally arrested, as they left the Val Thorens ski resort, a source has claimed.

A total of 800 members of Leeds Snowriders travelled to the resort last Friday as part of the society’s annual Easter trip.

A source said: ‘Cocaine found on every single seat of the coach.

‘One student was found with 100 Valiums along with cocaine and ketamine.

‘You would think they would have more sense.’

Drug supply charges in France are punishable with up to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of up to €7.5 million (£6,461,434), according to European drug laws.

Val Thorens, which opened in 1972, is regarded as one of the top ski resorts in Europe and is located in the south of France, close by to Italy.

A seven-night stay at the resort for the 2019/20 season ranges from €2,000 (£1,723) to €4,000 (£3,446).

A Val Thorens police source told The Sun: ‘There were up to 20 people, many of them English, spoken to by police on Friday.

‘Many are still of interest and can be recalled. One man has been formally arrested.’

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: ‘Our staff are assisting a British man following his arrest and are in contact with the French authorities.’

A Leeds University Union spokesperson said: ‘We have received reports about an incident involving Leeds University Union students abroad.

‘Leeds University Union is investigating but there are no further details available at this time.’

University of Leeds was contacted for a statement but declined to comment.