An attempt to smuggle almost £700,000 worth of cocaine into the UK hidden amongst cans of cola has been thwarted.

The drugs were seized when Border Force officers searched a Bulgarian freight lorry at the Port of Dover.

It had come from the Netherlands via ferry.

On closer examination of the load, officers discovered several packages hidden underneath a legitimate importation of Pepsi Max.

The contents of the packages tested positive for cocaine.

The 17kg of drugs have an estimated value of £680,000 once cut and sold on the streets.

Paul Morgan, director for Border Force South East & Europe, said: “This is a significant seizure which has prevented a large quantity of dangerous substances reaching the UK’s streets.

“As this case shows, our officers are on constant alert to stop drugs, weapons and other banned goods entering the country.

“We work in partnership with the National Crime Agency (NCA) to disrupt traffickers and prevent illegal drugs causing harm to communities.”

Following the seizure on Friday, December 9, the investigation was passed to the NCA.

The driver of the lorry, a 40-year-old man with dual Macedonian/Bulgarian nationality, was arrested and released on bail pending further investigations.

Anyone with information about suspected smuggling activity is asked to call 0800 59 5000.