A substantial cocaine seizure has recently taken place, with over £7 million worth of the drug hidden in a lorry transporting Kim Kardashian’s Skims clothing line. This crackdown is a result of a comprehensive National Crime Agency (NCA) investigation.
Cocaine Smuggling Operation Details
The incident involved Polish national Jakub Jan Konkel, who received a prison sentence of 13 years and six months on May 18, 2026, at Chelmsford Crown Court.
On September 5, 2025, Border Force officers intercepted Konkel’s lorry at the Port of Harwich, Essex. He had just arrived on a ferry from the Hook of Holland in the Netherlands, carrying 28 pallets of legitimate Skims apparel.
Discovery of Hidden Cocaine
Upon inspection, authorities x-rayed the heavy goods vehicle, revealing a meticulously constructed hide within the rear trailer doors. This concealed a total of 90 packages, each containing 1 kilogram of cocaine valued at approximately £7.2 million.
- Total cocaine seized: 90 kg
- Street value: £7.2 million
- Pallets of clothing: 28
Investigation Findings
Konkel’s tachograph indicated a 16-minute stop prior to being questioned by the NCA, which he failed to disclose. This timing suggests the illicit cargo was loaded onto his vehicle without his prior knowledge.
Initially, Konkel denied any involvement with the Class A drugs but later admitted to smuggling them for a payment of €4,500. His actions are indicative of a broader pattern, where organized crime groups leverage drivers to transport illegal substances concealed amidst legitimate freight.
Statements from Authorities
NCA operations manager Paul Orchard emphasized the negative impact of such crime on communities, noting the significant disruption caused by the seizure. He stated, “The profits from these drugs are lost to the crime groups behind the smuggling attempts.”
Border Force Assistant Director Jason Thorn echoed this sentiment, highlighting their commitment to thwarting smuggling efforts. “These drugs destroy lives and inflict misery on our communities,” he remarked.
This operation underscores ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and protect public safety by ensuring that dangerous substances remain off the streets.
