Drug Haul Hidden in Fuel Tank Nets Romanian Driver Nearly 10-Year Prison Sentence
Ion Cazac, 40, from Romania, was caught red-handed after Border Force stopped his vehicle at Dover Eastern Docks on 22 October. Officers quickly became suspicious when they noticed the fuel tank had been recently tampered with.
£2.5 Million Worth of Drugs Found Stashed Inside Fuel Tank
Upon opening the tank, officials discovered 32 packages concealed inside. Tests revealed the drugs had a purity between 61% and 80%, with a street value estimated at a staggering £2.5 million.
Cazac Denies Knowledge, Then Pleads Guilty
During questioning by National Crime Agency officers, Cazac initially denied any knowledge of the drugs. He claimed he’d picked up a load but stopped at a hotel after a call from another driver. However, he later changed his story and admitted involvement in importing controlled substances at Canterbury Crown Court on 22 November.
Nearly a Decade Behind Bars
Today (3 December), Cazac was sentenced to nine years and nine months in prison, closing the book on a high-stakes smuggling attempt thwarted at the UK border.
