by TIM SLINGER

POLICE HAVE LAUNCHED an investigation into the disappearance of over $200 000 in cash somewhere between Grantley Adams International Airport and Gatwick International Airport in London.

According to senior police sources, the money was part of an over $1 million cash consignment belonging to the Republic Bank of Trinidad and Tobago (RBTT).

Reports indicated the money fell short while enroute Britain on a British Airways flight last June 7.

There were no available comments from either the airline or local bank officials.

When contacted yesterday an official attached to British Airways said he could not speak on the matter since the airline's regional cargo handling headquarters are in Miami and could not be reached at that time.

Efforts to reach RBTT's marketing and public relations officials for comment also proved futile.

A voice mail message from the bank's marketing personnel, Joseph Charles indicated he was unavailable yesterday afternoon.

No arrests have been made to date, but police sources indicated a number of airport staff have been questioned in connection with the matter.

The money apparently was taken from the plane's cargo holding area.

Police sources also told the DAILY NATION yesterday that arrangements were being finalised by RBTT's managment to offer a cash reward leading to information or the recovery of the missing cash.