TEN CHARGED BY CUSTOMS IN EAST COAST DRUG OPERATION

4 May 2001 12:00 AM

Further to yesterday''s huge drug operation on the East Coast, Customs have charged seven men and three women with the importation of a quantity of cocaine and high-grade cannabis.

Subsequent house and garage searches in East London and Essex resulted in seizures of sub-machine guns, automatic pistols, semi-automatic rifles, ammunition, a mortar launcher, potential bomb making equipment and explosives.

Enquiries are continuing and Customs are working closely with the relevant police divisions on the seizure of firearms and explosives.

Those charged are:

Brian Richardson of Raintree Fold Close. Basildon, Essex Mark Rothermel of Leston Close, Rainham, Essex Sean Clarke of Triumph House, Alderman Avenue, Barking John McCann of Essex Close, Romford Guy Clements of Ilchester Road, Dagenham Matthew Howes of Rectory Court, Rectory Road, Grays, Essex Angel Jiminez of Toulouse, France

Bonnie Simon of Triumph House, Alderman Avenue, Barking Denise Smith of Kent Road, Dagenham Sarah Viesintino of Leston Close, Rainham Essex

NOTES FOR EDITORS:

1. Copies of previous press notice can be obtained from the address below.