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25/09/2001
Smuggling operation uncovered in Coalisland
An illicit spirit bottling plant has been found in a joint raid by police and customs officers in County Tyrone.
More than 20,000 litres of spirits were found in the plant at Washing Bay in Coalisland in what is being called the largest underground bottling plant ever discovered in Northern Ireland.
Customs and Excise officers also found 600,000 cigarettes at the plant, which they believe were smuggled. No arrests were made and inquiries are continuing.
Officers at the scene said together, the revenue on the alcohol and tobacco was in excess of £700,000.
The raid was the latest in a series by Customs staff and police against smugglers who stand to make vast profits on the blackmarket.
The spirits are currently being tested to determine the strength and quality of the alcohol.
A forklift truck, a quantity of pumping and storage equipment and a large consignment of empty bottles were also seized. (AMcE)
More than 20,000 litres of spirits were found in the plant at Washing Bay in Coalisland in what is being called the largest underground bottling plant ever discovered in Northern Ireland.
Customs and Excise officers also found 600,000 cigarettes at the plant, which they believe were smuggled. No arrests were made and inquiries are continuing.
Officers at the scene said together, the revenue on the alcohol and tobacco was in excess of £700,000.
The raid was the latest in a series by Customs staff and police against smugglers who stand to make vast profits on the blackmarket.
The spirits are currently being tested to determine the strength and quality of the alcohol.
A forklift truck, a quantity of pumping and storage equipment and a large consignment of empty bottles were also seized. (AMcE)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
