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This is reported by customs authorities in the United Kingdom. British media write about the case. The batch of hard drugs that our compatriot tried to smuggle across the border together with the 68-year-old Belgian has a street value of 17.5 million pounds, converted more than 20 million euros. Customs officers found the narcotics hidden in the wall panels of the van in which the two men were traveling and trying to make the crossing. They were arrested at the border in Coquelles on June 10 when they indicated that they wanted to enter the United Kingdom. Their arrest was not announced until Tuesday.
So-called Border Force agents, according to the Evening Standard and Metro, intercepted the vehicle at the tourist control after they became suspicious and decided to inspect the van thoroughly. Released photos by the National Crime Agency (NCA) show the white van, as well as drug packages expertly taped to the vehicle’s shielded interior.
drug gangs
Speaking personally about the Dutchman’s case, Kit Malthouse, Secretary of State for Police Affairs, said: “This issue is just one example of why our border and law enforcement colleagues are working around the clock to wipe out the activities of drug gangs and crack down on their supply partners. The consequences for people of narcotics are tragic, so we started a 10-year anti-drug strategy.” Ian Hanson, Director of Border Force Europe was also very pleased with the catch. “We work tirelessly to prevent organized criminal gangs from smuggling drugs across borders.”
Ⓒ Foto National Crime Agency
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Malthouse said he was working closely with the NCA and the police. NCA Division Commander Mark Howes added: “These drugs, destined for the streets of the UK, are said to have fueled addiction, violence and exploitation. The organized crime group responsible has lost a significant profit as a result of this seizure.”
The Dutchman is still detained pending the moment that he must be prevented. He is not the first Dutchman who was recently arrested in Coquelles. Last year, a 32-year-old truck driver from Urk was arrested for transporting a large amount of coke and ketamine between a batch of flowers. However, after denying knowledge of what was in his charge, he was acquitted of drug smuggling by a jury in Canterbury Court.
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