Table 1 Classification by category of packages used for ingestion by drug smugglers.

Loosely packed cocaine covered by two to four layers of condoms or other latex-like material. This type has the highest risk for leakage/rupture.

Tightly packed cocaine powder or paste covered in multiple layers of tubular latex

Tightly packed cocaine powder or paste covered by aluminium foil.

Dense cocaine paste is placed into a device, condensed and hardened. This is then packaged in tough tubular latex. This is then covered with coloured paraffin or fibreglass. It is always radiopaque, rendering it easily indentifiable on plain X-ray of the abdomen.