Thousands of litres of illicit booze were seized in a raid by custom officers and police.

The alcohol was nabbed in a raid on a shop in Mollison Way, Edgware, last week in an operation by HM Revenue and Customs, in partnership with Harrow police and Harrow Trading standards. 

A total of 4,992 litres of canned beer, many of which were major brands, 473 litres of Italian and Romanian wine and 14.7 litres of spirits which is believed to be counterfeit were seized.

Andrew Sackey, assistant director of criminal investigation for HMRC, said: “We have active and effective teams operating across London to deter and disrupt those dealing in illicit alcohol and tobacco.

“We will seize the goods and people involved may face criminal prosecution. This illegal trade has a devastating effect on legitimate retailers, who have to compete with black market traders.”

Harrow Police borough commander Chief Supt Simon Ovens said: "I am extremely pleased with the outcome of this outstanding piece of partnership work, between my Neighbourhood Policing Teams, HMRC and Trading Standards.

“This operation was based on information received by members of the public and it demonstrates that my officers will use every available option to pursue those who break the law, in our efforts to make Harrow the Safest Borough in London."