A couple from Birmingham have been found guilty of attempting to smuggle cocaine into the UK after they were stopped by Dover's Border Force officers.

Around two and a half kilos were found in a British registered Nissan Pathfinder, said to have a street value of £234,000 and an average purity of 57%.

The vehicle was stopped at the tourist controls in Dover's Eastern Docks on April 6 last year.

The pair, George and Micheala Asumaning said they had been on holiday in Germany.

After questioning them officers searched the vehicle and found cocaine in black wrapped packages inside the centre console and in the wiper motor chamber.

Both were arrested and the investigation was passed to the National Crime Agency (NCA).

They were subsequently bailed to allow the NCA to make further enquiries.

Forensic testing found DNA on the packaging that matched George Asumaning’s and the pair were charged with the attempted importation on November 25.

After a trial lasting eight days they were found guilty by a jury at Canterbury Crown Court last Friday and sentenced the same day.

George Asumaning received seven years imprisonment and Michaela received a sentence of two years suspended for two years.

Paul Morgan, the 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.