In a plan to swamp Greater Manchester with duty free cigarettes and tobacco, four men, Mark O'Neill (50), Christopher Bridgemen (49), Cyril Crowe (57), and Gerard Neville (49), were sentenced after an investigation conducted by HMRC uncovered their attempt to launder their profits illicitly.
It was found that all four men were associated with the storage and transportation of the goods around the North West of England in order to avoid £425,000 in UK taxes. They were also caught with considerable amounts of money, although each of them were unemployed. It is assumed to be the profits made from their activity.
Assistant Director, Criminal Investigation, HMRC, Sandra Smith said:
"We are determined to tackle the illicit tobacco trade in Greater Manchester. These men moved smuggled cigarettes and illegal cash around the North West region and, as a result of our actions, we have disrupted criminals who used illegal tobacco as a commodity to fund their lifestyles.
"My message is clear to anyone engaged in this illegal activity - HMRC will pursue those who ignore the rules on the sale, storage and supply of illicit tobacco goods.
"The evasion of excise duty is a criminal offence. If you are caught, you will not only have your goods seized but you may also face prosecution and, if convicted, a criminal record or prison sentence. Anyone with information about the illegal trade in smuggled cigarettes and tobacco in the Manchester area should contact the customs hotline on 0800 59 5000."
The four men had been seen at several incidents meeting in the area, often exchanging money or goods. After searching their vehicles, their homes and storage units, large quantities of cash affiliated with their illegal trade were discovered. During the sentencing at Manchester Crown Court, His Honour Judge Steiger stated that O'Neill had "played a prominent and major role in the conspiracy" and "Crowe and Bridgemen were his trusted and reliable lieutenants", whereas Melville was "only involved in the conspiracy from April to June 2012", leaving him with a lesser sentence to serve.
Each of the men were charged with conspiracy to evade the excise duty payable on goods. The cigarettes were recycled for the National Grid to use as fuel, the cash and used vehicles found were seized, and an investigation into their lifestyles and profits made took place.
HMRC is asking people who may have any information to call in and help to fight against crime.
