The largest fuel laundering plant ever uncovered in Northern Ireland, capable of producing up to six and a half million litres of illicit fuel a year, was raided today.
The diesel laundering plant, which had the potential to evade almost £3.2 million of revenue every year was dismantled in a joint operation involving customs staff and police on both sides of the border.
Premises in Co Armagh and neighbouring Co Louth were also searched.
The plant was found in a large shed in Co Armagh where around 25,000 thousand litres of illicit fuel, four large storage tanks and associated equipment were seized. Almost 1,000 litres of acid and a quantity of acid waste, the by-product from the laundering process, was removed as well.
Customs officers in Louth also seized a 40ft cattle truck with a concealed tank, along with a number of other vehicles.
John Whiting, Assistant Director, Criminal Investigation, for HMRC in Northern Ireland said the dangerous and illegal practice of laundering fuel was taken very seriously.
He added: “People need to be aware of the environmental and safety issues surrounding the laundering of fuel, which is often done in rural locations. Indiscriminate dumping of the by-products from the laundering process can cause severe damage to arable land and our water systems, as well as taxpayers and local ratepayers having to pay for the clean up and disposal costs.
“We are working together in partnership with our colleagues on both sides of the border, through the Cross Border Fuel Fraud Group, to stop the damage to our local businesses and environment. The illegal activity uncovered today clearly shows the total disregard for the economic and environmental well-being of our communities with personal profit the sole motivation.”
Ursula O’ Neill, assistant principal, Customs Investigations, for the Revenue Commissioners said the operation illustrated a prime example of cross-border multi agency co-operation in the fight against organised crime.
She added: “The particular location of the laundering plant suggests that the laundered oil was for distribution on both sides of the border, resulting in losses to both the UK and Republic of Ireland exchequers”.
PA