A Romanian lorry driver has been jailed for seven years after attempting to smuggle thousands of pounds worth of cocaine through the Port of Dover.

Border Force officers stopped a Romanian registered lorry at Dover’s Eastern Docks on October 5 last year.

The driver, named Ioan Ionce, 24, was questioned and his vehicle searched.

The lorry contained stonework for delivery to Sundridge in Kent.

Ten taped brown packages all weighing a kilo each, were found in a purpose built concealment containing an estimated street value of £675,000 worth of cocaine.

Ionce was arrested and the investigation passed to the National Crime Agency.

Ionce pleaded guilty at a hearing at Canterbury Crown Court on Monday and was sentenced to seven years imprisonment.

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.