A state-of-the-art illegal tobacco factory, dubbed one of the biggest-ever in Scotland, has been dismantled following a raid by authorities.
Located in West Lothian, the sophisticated set up included expensive machinery and insulation to hide noise and smells.
Four tonnes of tobacco were recovered in the operation carried out by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and Police Scotland. The seized tobacco is worth an estimated £1 million in unpaid duty. Suspected counterfeit tobacco pouches were also found and seized.
Investigations are ongoing however five people have been arrested and charged with offences under section 170(1)(b) of the Customs and Excise Management Act (1979).
Joe Hendry, assistant director of the Fraud Investigation Service at HMRC, said: “This was one of the largest and most sophisticated tobacco factories we have ever uncovered in Scotland. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to target anyone we suspect as being involved in the illicit tobacco trade.
“The illicit tobacco trade steals money from our vital public services, undercuts legitimate businesses and can fund other crimes that harm our communities.
“We encourage anyone with information about the illegal sale of tobacco or alcohol to report it to HMRC online.”
Detective Sergeant John Irvine of Police Scotland added: “We will continue to work closely with our partners to disrupt, detect and deter anyone involved in the illicit trade of illegal or counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco.
“We know that due to perceived higher profit margins, criminals can turn to the illicit trade in tobacco, which in turn can lead to other forms of criminality.
“If you have any information or concerns about illegal or counterfeit cigarettes or tobacco within the local community, please get in touch with HMRC or Police Scotland. Alternatively calls can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.”
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