A TAXI driver and passenger have now been released under investigation after bags of white powder, believed to be cocaine, were found in a Lynx Africa spray in the vehicle.

Police stopped a taxi on Garswood Road in St Helens at around 5pm yesterday, Wednesday, February 19 during a routine stop check.

The driver and passenger were searched under a drugs warrant before numerous bags of suspected cannabis were found inside a can of de-icer.

Then officers found a can of Lynx Africa containing a number of bags of white powder, suspected of being cocaine.

A number of phones and a quantity of cash were also discovered.

The driver, a 38-year-old man from Newton-Le-Willows, was arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs and drug driving.

The passenger, a 25-year-old man from Haydock, was also arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply drugs.

Today both have been released under investigation.

Merseyside Police Superintendent Tami Garvey-Jones said: “Taxi drivers have a duty of care to those they are driving around the region and being under the influence of drugs heavily effects their judgement and driving ability and puts passengers and other road users in huge danger.

“If you know someone taking drugs, supplying them or carrying them, then let us know.

"This shouldn’t be tolerated by anyone, whether in St Helens or elsewhere."

If you have any information contact police on 101.