Published Date:
14 August 2008
CUSTOMS officials have seized nine million fake cigarettes worth £1.57m. in duty, which were destined for the streets of Burnley.
The massive haul of cigarettes was made on August 5th when UK Border Agency officers swooped on the port of Felixstowe, Suffolk.
The cigarettes, which arrived in containers from Namibia, were described as charcoal but when officers opened the load, they found it packed with Benson and Hedges Gold cigarettes.
Mr Jim Jarvie, deputy director for central region UKBA, said: "This is a large seizure of illegal cigarettes that without the intervention of UKBA officers working alongside HMRC colleagues would have flooded our streets.
"A vital part of UKBA and HMRC's work is to protect the interests of honest shopkeepers by preventing commercial smuggling and the onward transport and sale of illegal cigarettes."
Mr Dave Gostelow, a HMRC spokesman, added: "UKBA and HMRC are keen to work closely with local people and business communities in the fight against cigarette fraud.
"I would urge any member of the public, who knows of any illegal tobacco sales or suspicious activity in their area, to contact us on our 24-hour helpline 0800 59 5000."
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Last Updated:
15 August 2008 10:36 AM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Burnley
