Massive Illegal Tobacco Factory Busted in Newry
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have smashed a huge illegal tobacco factory in Newry, Northern Ireland. This secret operation was pumping out millions of smokes daily, hitting the UK’s coffers hard.
State-of-the-Art Setup Cranking Out 1.5 Million Cigarettes a Day
The factory was kitted out with cutting-edge gear — including soundproof walls, high-tech extraction systems, and expensive machinery. It was capable of producing a staggering 1.5 million cigarettes every single day.
Officers seized over 1.25 million cigarettes and nine tonnes of tobacco, all worth more than £3 million in lost tax revenue.
Seven Men Arrested in Major Organised Crime Bust
Seven suspects have been arrested, suspected of dodging taxes under the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979. HMRC say this raid deals a massive blow to the criminal gangs behind the illegal tobacco trade.
“This was one of the most sophisticated tobacco factories we have ever uncovered in Northern Ireland and this will be a significant blow to the organised criminals we believe are behind it,” said Dermot Clarke, Operational Lead at HMRC’s Fraud Investigation Service.“The illicit tobacco trade steals money from public services, undercuts legitimate businesses, and funds other crimes that impact our communities.”
Investigations are ongoing. HMRC urges anyone with info about illegal tobacco or alcohol trading online to come forward.
