An alleged drugs dealer appeared in court on Friday after "holding out" for more than two weeks before finally going to the toilet.

Damien Ankrah, aged 27, was arrested on July 13 on suspicion of transporting heroin by placing the drugs in a condom and hiding them.

But it was almost August before he went to the toilet and police had to use new legislation to get the evidence.

The exceptional effort led Dyfed-Powys Police to warn drugs dealers not to try the same thing.

Ankrah was arrested in Haverfordwest and detained at Pembroke Dock police station, where officers told him he would not be released until he went to the loo.

Police have lawful powers which enables them to detain a person in custody who is suspected of secreting drugs within their body for as long as is absolutely necessary.

Ankrah refused to go to the toilet for 17 days but finally gave way.

He appeared at Swansea crown court on Friday via video link from the city's prison accused of possessing heroin with intent to supply.

His barrister, Jim Davis, said Ankrah would plead guilty at a plea and case management hearing on October 2.

Ieuan Rees, prosecuting, said a number of other people were involved and police investigations were continuing.

Judge Huw Davies said he would note on Ankrah's file that he would plead guilty and that would qualify him for the maximum one third discount off his eventual sentence.

Ankrah, of no fixed address, was further remanded in custody.

Speaking before the court appearance Detective Sergeant Richard Lewis said that new legislation allows police to apply to keep people suspected of secreting drugs in their body in police custody for long periods of time.

“This legislation which has been used by various agencies throughout the country has proved invaluable," he said.

“It provides police, and the prosecution, with the necessary tools to recover controlled drugs.

“It sends a clear message that there really is no place to hide."

Anyone with information on drug dealing should contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.