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HMRC and PSNI Seize Illicit Tobacco and Cigarettes in Derry Operation

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), supported by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), carried out a significant operation in Derry on Wednesday, August 27. The operation, launched under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979, targeted a large-scale illicit tobacco and cigarette trade. During the search of 12 commercial premises, a residence, and a vehicle, customs officers and police seized a substantial amount of illicit goods and cash. The operation's success highlights the ongoing efforts to combat the illicit tobacco and cigarette trade, which damages public services and undermines legitimate traders.

Key Takeaways:

  • Approximately 13,880 illicit cigarettes were seized during the operation, demonstrating the scale of the illicit trade.
  • 2.2 kg of illicit hand-rolling tobacco was also seized, further emphasizing the scope of the operation.
  • An estimated £2,000 in cash was seized under the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, illustrating the financial gains of the illicit trade.
  • Lucie Irving, Assistant Director of HMRC's Fraud Investigations Service, emphasized the importance of combating the illicit trade, citing its detrimental impact on funding for vital public services.
  • Detective Chief Inspector Phelan from the Police Service's Paramilitary Crime Task Force emphasized the collective dedication of law enforcement agencies in tackling the sale and supply of illicit tobacco products.
  • Chief Superintendent Gillian Kearney noted the harm inflicted on legitimate traders and the link between the illicit trade and organized crime.

Statistics:

  • 13,880 illicit cigarettes were seized
  • 2.2 kg of illicit hand-rolling tobacco was seized
  • An estimated £2,000 in cash was seized
  • 12 commercial premises, a residence, and a vehicle were searched
  • Operation was carried out under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979
  • HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) collaborated on the operation

Sources:

  • "HMRC and PSNI Seize Illicit Tobacco and Cigarettes in Derry Operation" (Byline: Kevin Mullan)
  • Customs and Excise Management Act 1979
  • Proceeds of Crime Act 2002

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