Man Charged With Dover Cocaine Seizure

A man from Dumbarton appeared in court today (2 July 2009) after officers from the UK Border Agency (UKBA) seized approximately three kilos of cocaine at Dover's Eastern Docks on 30 June 2009. The drugs have an estimated street value of £120,000.

UKBA officers stopped a BMW car after it arrived by ferry from Calais. During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered the cocaine hidden in air vents.

Following the detection, the case was passed to HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) investigation officers to continue enquiries.

Stephen Atyeo, 44, from Dumbarton, Scotland was arrested on suspicion of smuggling approximately three kilos of cocaine into the UK. He was interviewed and subsequently charged on 1 July 2009 with being knowingly concerned in the fraudulent evasion or attempted evasion of the prohibition on importation imposed by section 3(1) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

He withheld his plea and was remanded in custody by Dover Magistrates today. Atyeo is due to appear at Canterbury Crown Court on 30 August 2009 for a committal hearing.

Malcolm Bragg, HMRC Assistant Director Criminal Investigation, said:

"Our priority, in partnership with the UKBA, is to prevent illegal drugs from entering the UK. We will continue to protect our communities from the violence and corruption that always accompanies this dangerous trade. Anyone with information about drugs smuggling should call our 24 hour Customs' Hotline on 0800 59 5000."