Prince William's drug war

2 months ago 07th May 14:00

Britain's Prince William is set fight in the war against drug trafficking in South America.

The future king, a Household Cavalry officer, will join Royal Navy patrols to help catch cocaine smugglers in the Caribbean.

Both Clarence House and Armed Forces chiefs are keen for William - who will soon complete his four-month stint with the Royal Air Force - to keen as much experience as he can.

A source is quoted by Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper as saying: "Everyone agrees he needs operational experience and to feel he is playing a vital role. As a possible future king, it is essential for everyone in the Armed Forces to see he is doing his bit.

The Caribbean on a warship is an ideal tour as it has operational potential and works diplomatically. Local island governors will be very pleased to see a royal visiting them.

"But there are security issues with him going to Iraq or Afghanistan as he is a massive al-Qaeda target.

"The Caribbean on a warship is an ideal tour as it has operational potential and works diplomatically. Local island governors will be very pleased to see a royal visiting them."

William - a qualified pilot - may have to fly Navy helicopters from the drug-busting vessel as military insiders say it is "unthinkable" he would take control of a helicopter during an anti-drugs swoop.