An illegal vodka bottling factory has been discovered in a shed in Co Louth.
In investigation involving a number of European customs agencies, officers from Revenue’s Customs Service, assisted by gardaí, uncovered a “major haul” of counterfeit labelling and packaging materials in the Kilcurry area on Wednesday night.
Although no alcohol was found in the raid, more than 400,000 labels, 500 cardboard cases and 100,000 screw-top bottle closures were uncovered, along with a bottle filling machine and other packaging equipment.
The counterfeit labels were made to replicate well-known vodka brands, including Smirnoff, Stolichnaya and Glen’s .
Two people have been questioned in relation to the discovery, and investigations are continuing, Revenue said.
“Cheap alcohol from an irregular source is likely to be counterfeit and could potentially cause serious harm if consumed,” Revenue said in a statement. “It also takes much needed funds from the Exchequer and hurts legitimate trade.”
