A Glasgow social media influencer has been sentenced to 16 months in prison for attempting to smuggle £150,000 worth of cannabis into the United Kingdom.

Cannabis Seizure at Edinburgh Airport

Ellie Crampsie, 23, was arrested at Edinburgh Airport on April 16, 2025, after Border Force officers discovered 17 kilograms of cannabis hidden in her luggage. Crampsie arrived on an Air France flight from Thailand, with a connection in Paris.

Claims of Coercion and Exploitation

During the court proceedings, Crampsie, who runs a beauty business called Brows by Ellie and is known for her Glasgow nightlife content, claimed she was coerced into transporting the drugs by a former boyfriend. She stated she was naive and vulnerable to manipulation.

Mitigating Circumstances Acknowledged

Sheriff Graeme Watson acknowledged the possibility of exploitation and a power imbalance in Crampsie’s relationship. Her solicitor, Michael Poggi, emphasized her ‘lesser role’ and presented evidence of pressure from others. He noted that other individuals involved did not travel with her and did not attempt to contact her afterward.

Sentencing and Drug Value

The cannabis was packaged in 17 sealed containers, with an estimated street value between £115,000 and £151,000. Despite recognizing mitigating circumstances, Sheriff Watson determined a custodial sentence was unavoidable, citing the seriousness of the offense.

Rising Trend in Air Passenger Smuggling

This case highlights a significant increase in drug smuggling attempts by air passengers into the UK. Data from the National Crime Agency shows a 3,625 percent increase in arrests for cannabis smuggling on airlines in recent years.

Arrest Statistics

  • 2022: 20 arrests
  • 2023: 134 arrests
  • 2024: 745 arrests
  • 2025 (Jan-Sept): 680 arrests

    • Law enforcement agencies are facing increasing challenges in preventing drug importation, and this case serves as a warning to anyone considering involvement in drug smuggling.