Drugs found on cargo ship

Almost £20m of cocaine found stashed in banana crates onboard a cargo ship at Portsmouth Docks has been seized, sparking an investigation.

On Wednesday, July 22, 240kg of the Class A drug was discovered by Border Force officers supporting the National Crime Agency.

The NCA has launched an investigation after £19.2 million worth of cocaine was discovered on a cargo ship in Portsmouth Docks. | NCA

placeholder image — The NCA has launched an investigation after £19.2 million worth of cocaine was discovered on a cargo ship in Portsmouth Docks. | NCA

The drugs, which have a street value of £19.2 million, were uncovered on refrigerated cargo ship – the MV Atlantic Klipper - which docked in Portsmouth having set sail from South America via the Caribbean.

With the support of the Joint Operations Unit which comprises Hampshire Police and Thames Valley Police, the drugs were moved to a secure location.

Matteo Sole, NCA senior investigating officer, said: “This is a significant seizure of cocaine and will deprive the organised crime group behind it of profit that cannot now fund further offending.

“The NCA works at home with partners such as Border Force, and abroad, to combat the threat of Class A drugs and the toxic effect they have on society.”

The NCA investigation continues.