A TRAIN passenger has admitted a drug supply crime after being caught with a suitcase containing 17 kilos of cannabis at Carlisle railway station.

Wang Kie Xie, a 24-year-old man, was arrested after the crime came to light as he travelled to the city on a TransPennine Express service on November 10, 2024.

Xie, of no fixed address, appeared at Carlisle Crown Court this morning (January 13).

During a short hearing in front of Judge Nicholas Barker, Xie pleaded guilty to possessing cannabis — a controlled drug of class B — with intent to supply it to another. The charge has been brought as part of a British Transport Police prosecution.

No estimated street value for the cannabis stash was given in court.

Xie was assisted by a Mandarin interpreter. He appeared remotely over a video link from HMP Durham. He spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and to enter the plea.

After hearing submissions from Xie’s barrister, Judge Barker adjourned the case for preparation of a probation service pre-sentence report.

He is due to be sentenced at the crown court on 3rd March, and in the meantime remains remanded in custody.