News
Illegal fuel plant uncovered
The illegal operation was capable of producing five million litres of illicit fuel, evading nearly £4 million in taxes and duty.
Officers from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), supported by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), searched a number of sheds at a private address in Cullyhanna where the plant was uncovered and then dismantled.
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 clean up 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 0800 59 5000 and contribute to the fight against this criminality.”
Pumps and equipment were removed from the site and investigations into those behind the operation are continuing.