A YOUNG trainee doctor from Townsville is behind bars in Bolivia after airport authorities allegedly found bomb-making equipment in his bag. 
Julian Musumeci, 24, and two of his university friends were arrested on   November 12 at Viru Viru International Airport as they waited to board a flight to Sao Paulo.
The three Queensland students - who had been studying medicine at James Cook University - had been on a backpacking adventure through South America when they were arrested by narcotics police.
Liam Eales and Justin Sun, both 25, were detained but later released and will remain in Bolivia until their friend has faced trial.
Friends of Mr Musumeci (pictured) have expressed shock at the popular student's arrest, describing him as a "lovely guy" and a "gentleman".
Local media reports have alleged Bolivian narcotics special forces found a dynamite canister, a blasting cap and a bag of pink granulated powder in Mr Musumeci's bag.
According to reports, Mr Musumeci allegedly told authorities they had bought the items while touring the area's gold and potassium mines.
"Julian, he is a good kid," a close family friend said. "He has done seven years of medical training and a stupid error could now cost him." Julian's mother and father - who is a local real estate agent - have flown to Bolivia to await his court case.
Local reports said the possession of explosives could result in a prison term of between three and five years.The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is offering consular assistance to the men.