Police and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) officers have uncovered two fuel laundering plants in Northern Ireland.

They were discovered at Draperstown, County Londonderry, last week, but details of the operation have just been released.

A police spokesperson said: “While on regular patrol on Wednesday, June 29th, police officers along with officials from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) uncovered two fuel laundering plants in close proximity in the Draperstown area.

“The discovery of this fuel laundering plant shows the commitment of police in Draperstown, working extensively with HMRC, to detect and prevent fuel smuggling and laundering.

“We will always act on concerns and information from the community and we would encourage any member of the public who knows anything in regard to this kind of illegality to contact their local police on the 101 number.

“Alternatively, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555111.”