Watch more of our videos on Shots!
and live on Freeview channel 276

One of Scotland’s biggest ever illegal tobacco factories has been dismantled after a raid in West Lothian by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and Police Scotland.

Unfortunately, we were not able to establish exactly where in the county the raid occurred. Due to ongoing investigations, HMRC and officers were unable to disclose the factory’s location.

However, it was described as a state-of-the-art set-up – capable of evading millions of pounds of duty per year, until it was uncovered in the operation.

The sophisticated set up included expensive machinery and insulation to hide noise and smells.

The illegal tobacco factory in West Lothian was dismantled after a raid this week by HMRC and Police Scotland.

Four tonnes of tobacco was recovered, worth an estimated £1 million in unpaid duty. Suspected counterfeit tobacco pouches were also found and seized.

Joe Hendry, HMRC Fraud Investigation Service assistant director, said: “This was one of the largest and most sophisticated tobacco factories we have ever uncovered in Scotland.

"We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to target anyone we suspect as being involved in the illicit tobacco trade.

“The illicit tobacco trade steals money from our vital public services, undercuts legitimate businesses and can fund other crimes that harm our communities.

A sophisticated set up, it included expensive machinery and insulation.

“We encourage anyone with information about the illegal sale of tobacco or alcohol to report it to HMRC online.”

Detective Sergeant John Irvine, Police Scotland, said: "We will continue to work closely with our partners to disrupt, detect and deter anyone involved in the illicit trade of illegal or counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco.

“We know that due to perceived higher profit margins, criminals can turn to the illicit trade in tobacco, which in turn can lead to other forms of criminality.

“If you have any information or concerns about illegal or counterfeit cigarettes or tobacco within the local community, please get in touch with HMRC or Police Scotland.

"Alternatively calls can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained.”

The raid took place on Friday, January 13 – certainly not lucky for the five people who have been arrested and charged. The total duty evaded is estimated at £1 million.

Illegal tobacco factory raided and dismantled in undisclosed West Lothian town