An Italian lorry driver has been jailed for eight years after attempting to smuggle ten kilos of heroin into the UK via the Port of Dover.

The drugs had an estimated street value of £1,460,250.

On May 11, Border Force officers stopped an Italian-registered lorry at Dover’s Eastern Docks.

After questioning the driver, Ferhat Molla, officers searched the lorry and found the drugs in a wooden section under the cab’s bunk.

Molla, 50, was arrested and the investigation passed to the National Crime Agency.

He pleaded guilty at a hearing at Canterbury Crown Court on June 2 and was sentenced there on Wednesday.

Paul Morgan, Director of Border Force South East and Europe said: “Drug trafficking is a serious offence and those convicted will face prison sentences.

"Our message to those who would consider it is that it’s just not worth it.

“Border Force officers will continue to work diligently to keep our border secure and to make life as tough as possible for those who seek to profit from this evil trade.”

Anyone with information about activity they suspect may be linked to drug smuggling should call the hotline on 0800 59 5000.