Customs officers have seized enough illegal alcohol to fill an articulated lorry at a self storage facility in West Bromwich.

The alcohol, which would have amounted to £40,000 in lost duty, was found at two of the units.

The haul included 14,640 cans of Carling, Stella and Fosters lager, 3,240 bottles of Stella and Desperados beer, 11,500 bottles of wine including Blossom Hill, Lindemans and Echo Falls and 150 bottles of spirits.

“We have active and effective teams operating across the Midlands to deter and disrupt those dealing in illicit alcohol. We will seize the goods and individuals may face criminal prosecution. This illegal trade has a devastating effect on legitimate retailers having to compete with black market traders,” said an HMRC spokeswoman.

“We would appeal to local people and businesses to join us in the fight against crime and encourage anyone with information relating to illegally imported goods or tax evasion and fraud to contact the Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000.”

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