30/07/2003

10 arrested in cigarette smuggling sting

Four men from Slough and five men and one woman from Barnsley were arrested yesterday following the discovery of 44 million cigarettes at the port of Felixstowe.

The cigarettes, which are believed to be counterfeit, were found in eight containers that had arrived from China.

Following the detection, Customs officers raided premises in Slough and Barnsley, making the arrests.

David Odd, Assistant Chief Investigation Officer heading the investigation called Operation Coastal, said: "The cigarettes have been sent for analysis but there is little doubt that they are counterfeit. Tobacco smuggling is a serious crime and Customs are committed to reducing all forms of illicit cigarettes - smuggled or counterfeit. We will continue to hit the criminals hard."

Those arrested are being interviewed with the exception of the woman from Barnsley who has been released on bail. The four men arrested at the premises in Slough are all Polish nationals.

Customs have urged anyone with information about illegally imported drugs, tobacco or alcohol to contact 0800 59 5000.

(GMcG)

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