Following a raid in West Lothian, one of Scotland’s largest ever illegal tobacco factories was demolished. The cutting-edge factory, capable of evading millions of pounds in duty each year, was discovered during a joint investigation by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and Police Scotland. The sophisticated setup included costly machinery and insulation to conceal noise and odours. Four tonnes of tobacco were recovered, estimated to be worth £1 million in unpaid duty. Suspected counterfeit tobacco pouches were also discovered and confiscated. According to Joe Hendry, Assistant Director, Fraud Investigation Service, HMRC: “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 identify and prosecute anyone we suspect of being involved in the illegal 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 knowledge of illegal tobacco or alcohol sales to report it to HMRC online.” Police Scotland Detective Sergeant John Irvine stated: “We will continue to work closely with our partners to disrupt, detect, and deter anyone involved in the illegal trade of counterfeit or illegal cigarettes and tobacco. “We know that because of perceived higher profit margins, criminals may turn to illicit tobacco trade, which 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. Calls to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained, are also accepted.” Five people have been charged and arrested. The investigations are still ongoing.