A filling station suspected of selling illicit fuel has had its forecourt pumps removed by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC).

HMRC worked with specialist contractors to remove the fuel pumps and an over-ground fuel storage tank safely at the forecourt in County Down, Northern Ireland.

At a second site, also in County Down, HMRC visited an oil storage depot where they removed more than 4,000 litres of suspected illicit fuel. A total of 6,450 litres of illicit fuel were seized during the operation on Wednesday December 10.

Investigations into the filling station and storage site are ongoing.

Pat Curtis, national oils co-ordinator, HMRC, said: “Selling illicit fuel creates an unfair playing field and seriously undercuts legitimate traders who should be able to operate without the threat of unfair competition. Retailers who sell illicit diesel will not only face seizure and removal of fuel and equipment from their premises, but also risk losing their licence to trade.

“Anyone with information on fuel misuse or suspicious activities can contact the Customs’ hotline on 0800 595000.”