Tobacco haul in Aldermaston

Four men have been arrested after police found almost 570,000 cigarettes in a steel container

A MAJOR haul of illicit cigarettes and hand rolling tobacco has been seized in Aldermaston.

Nearly 570,000 cigarettes branded as Richman and 80 kilos of Domingo hand rolling tobacco were discovered in a steel container on Wednesday (April 13).

A firearm and a Mercedes Sprinter van were also seized.

Four men were arrested at the scene and are said to be helping HM Revenue and Customs with their enquiries.

Keith Morgan, Specialist Investigation Detection manager for HM Revenue and Customs, said: "Low cost tobacco products can often seem very attractive to local people, lured into purchasing them at what seem like bargain prices.

"However, the truth is these goods have been smuggled and these sales are unlicensed and unregulated. Those involved are not concerned if they are selling to children and underage young people and the illicit trade has a devastating impact on legitimate retailers and the local community.

He added: "We all pay extra to compensate for the money these criminals steal and with the economic challenges being faced by businesses and the public, our focus must remain relentless to deter and disrupt the illegal trade. "With over £2 billion in revenue being drained from the public purse each year by tobacco smugglers alone, the problem of excise fraud is a real one, which we are determined to crack."

The revenue loss on the tobacco goods seized is over £142,000.

Anyone who knows of someone selling cheap or duty free cigarettes and tobacco are encouraged to contact the Revenue and Customs hotline on 0800 59 5000 or email customs.hotline@hmrc.gsi.gov.uk