Colombia model, beauty pageant contestant faces death penalty for drug smuggling in China

Beijing, Aug 5: A 22-year-old Colombia model and beauty pageant contestant has been arrested in China and facing death penalty for smuggling drugs, media reported.

Juliana Lopez was arrested for smuggling psychedelic drugs at Guangzhou Airport in south China's Guangzhou Province, on July 18, 2015.

According to media reports, Lopez went to China two weeks ago to purchase stylish Chinese clothes, accessories and other souvenirs for a fashion store she owns back in Colombia.

Lopez's family contacted the Colombia Embassy in Beijing after losing contact with her and was notified that Lopez had been detained in China for drug trafficking.

The family is now trying to raise money and hire a lawyer to defend Lopez.

Back in Colombia, Lopez was a role model who plays soccer for a local football club "The Football Divasis" and also works as a presenter at a local TV station.

China's law stipulates severe punishments for smuggling drugs into the country.

OneIndia New