Fuel laundering operation smashed in Co Tyrone

Following the detection of a major fuel-laundering plant in Co Armagh last week, Customs have shut down an even bigger illicit operation, this time in Co Tyrone.

The illegal fuel operation was discovered in rural industrial premises three miles from Ballygawley, on the main road to Dungannon. It had the capacity to launder approximately 70,000 litres of fuel per week, which would have meant an annual revenue loss of over £1.8 million.

During the operation to target the illegal removal of the chemical markers in red diesel, Customs officers seized around 10,000 litres of adulterated fuel from the laundering operation.

Customs officers also seized pumping and storage equipment, two transit vans, a fuel tanker, a rigid lorry and a trailer, used in the transport of the contaminated fuel.

Customs Head of Detection Northern Ireland Colin McAllister said: “This week’s operations have stopped a substantial amount of harmful diesel entering the fuel market and damaging the legitimate retail trade.

“Motorists need to be aware of the full costs of buying cheap diesel. It puts honest fillings stations out of business, robs the taxpayer of money for public services and puts the motorist’s vehicle at risk of serious engine damage."

Anyone who has any information on suspicious activities should call the confidential 24-hour free phone on 0800 59 5000.

(GMcG)