28/06/2013

Armagh Fuel Plant Discovered

More than 14 tonnes of toxic waste have been removed from farm buildings after the discovery of a diesel laundering plant in County Armagh.

On Thursday, officers from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), assisted by the PSNI, dismantled the plant.

HMRC says the operation could have produced almost five million litres of illegal fuel a year.

This would have resulted in a £3m excise duty and VAT evasion.

Pat Curtis, HMRC National Oils Co-ordinator, said: "Every illegal laundering operation typically generates tonnes of toxic waste, which involves significant environmental and safety issues. As taxpayers and local ratepayers, not only are we missing out on the stolen tax going into the pockets of the criminals, we are also paying the substantial cleanup and disposal costs.

"Buying illicit fuel funds crime and supports and encourages these dangerous activities within our communities. The only winners are the criminals. I would urge anyone with information on fuel misuse in their area to contact our free telephone hotline on 0800 59 5000 and contribute to the fight against this criminality."

Pumps, tanks and equipment were removed from the site. A forensic investigation and enquiries into the illegal operation are continuing.

(IT/JP)

Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

15 March 2024
PSNI And DVA Conduct Proactive Safety Operation In Coleraine
The PSNI and Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has conducted a proactive safety operation in Coleraine, as part of ongoing road safety efforts.
23 February 2024
Cash And Drugs Seized In L'Derry Search Operation
The Ballyarnett Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) in L'Derry have seized cash and suspected Class A and suspected Class B drugs durng a planned search of a property in the Racecourse Road area. A 20-year-old man who was arrested as part of enquiries has since been bailed pending further police enquiries.
01 February 2024
Men Sentenced For Ballymena Drug And Money Laundering Operation
Three men were sentenced for offences linked to a drugs and money laundering operation in the Ballymena area yesterday, 31 January. At Antrim Crown Court, Troy Carley (27), Neil Lowry (30) and Marc Mitchell (32) were sentenced for a number of offences.
06 February 2004
Two-day fuel operation leads to £13,000 fines
A two-day joint Customs and PSNI operation in the west of the province has led to the detection of 24 vehicles using illegal fuel and up to £13,000 worth of fines being handed out to drivers.
16 April 2024
Two Arrested In Limavady Organised Crime Operation
Two arrests have been made during a search operation by the PSNI's Organised Crime Branch in Limavaday. Officers carried out a search of a house in the town earlier today, Tuesday 16th April. A number of items were seized including a quantity of suspected Class C controlled drugs and electronic devices.