22 May 2025

Case Study: Successful Defence in Cigarette Duty Evasion HMRC Investigation

At Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, our experienced Investigations Team has secured a successful result for a client accused of evading duty on a large-scale consignment of cigarettes. After more than two and a half years under the spotlight of a complex HMRC criminal investigation, our client has been formally NFA’d (No Further Action taken).

Allegations and Scale of the Investigation

Our client was arrested following allegations of involvement in a conspiracy to evade duty on over £1.1 million worth of cigarettes, with an estimated duty evasion of £380,000. Cases of this nature are taken extremely seriously by HMRC and are often prosecuted as criminal offences under the Fraud Act 2006 and the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979.

The investigation was wide-ranging and heavily resourced. It involved:

  • Seizure and analysis of mobile phone data
  • Vehicle hire records and tracking
  • ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) surveillance
  • Cell site evidence placing individuals in key locations

Our Legal Work

Directors Kally Sahota and Latayah Gillispie led the defence work, working closely with the client to test the reliability and evidential value of the prosecution’s case. After 31 months of sustained legal representation, the client has now received confirmation that there will be no further action taken.

The Importance of Early and Skilled Representation

Had the matter progressed to charge and conviction, the client would have faced a substantial prison sentence. Sentencing guidelines for duty evasion of this scale – £380,000 – place the offence in the most serious category, with starting points of 4 to 7 years’ custody, depending on the role and level of planning involved. These are not minor allegations, and prison is almost always inevitable if convicted.

Our early engagement, detailed analysis and persistence ensured that the case did not even reach Court.

If you need urgent legal advice now, call/WhatsApp us on 0116 255 5155.

Why Choose Sahota & Sahota Solicitors?

We understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with being the subject of a financial or tax-related criminal investigation. Our firm regularly defends clients facing scrutiny from HMRC, NCA and other agencies, with a focus on evidence-led strategies and decisive action. We are known for our tireless approach, clarity of advice and results.

If you’re being investigated for tax evasion, duty fraud or any financial crime, speak to us immediately on 0116 255 5155 or visit us at: Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, 25 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 6TE.

If you need expert advice do not hesitate to contact us on 0116 255 5155. Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day seven days a week.

Enquiry Form

× How can we help?