A 35-year-old businessman has been arrested on suspicion of laundering up to £6 million after hundreds of litres of alcohol was seized in Gravesend.

The man was arrested after Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs officers searched an address in the town yesterday and found 600 litres of what is believed to be illicit alcohol.

They say the booze was estimated to be worth around £17,000 in lost duty and taxes while £6,000 in cash, business records and equipment was also taken.

The man has been interviewed by HMRC and released on bail until June 17 as investigations continue.

Alan Tully, assistant director of criminal investigation at HMRC, said: "Tackling money laundering is a priority for HMRC and we will not hesitate to investigate those suspected of stealing public funds.

"Anyone with information about people who may be involved in this type of fraud can contact the Customs Hotline on 0800 59 5000."