Issued on behalf of HM Customs and Excise and ILPH

On 1st September 2003, HM Customs and Excise at Dover discovered approximately 20 kilograms of cocaine in the floor of a horsebox, which was examined at Dover Eastern Docks. Inside the horsebox were two horses, which were also detained. Since 1st September 2003, no one has come forward to claim the horses, which have been cared for at a livery stables at St. Margaret's, near Dover.

Customs spokesman Nigel Knott says, "Reducing the availability of Class A drugs in the UK is a primary responsibility for HM Customs and Excise. The seizure of approximately 20 kilos of cocaine prevents around 100,000 deals reaching the streets. The horses had to be be detained as they were in the lorry, but they need more care and attention than we are able to provide for them, but which they will receive from the International League for the Protection of Horses (ILPH), for the rest of their lives."

Tony Tyler, ILPH Director of UK Operations says, "This is an important milestone for the ILPH and HM Customs and Excise and is an excellent example of inter agency cooperation. As the horses' future was uncertain, I am pleased that we have the space to be able to take them in and care for them."

A 35 year old man from Cheshire has been charged with the importation offence.

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