Fact Check: This is the sixth-largest cocaine seizure in UK history.

Fact Check: "This is the sixth-largest cocaine seizure in UK history."

What We Know

On June 28, 2025, British authorities announced the seizure of 2.4 metric tons of cocaine at the London Gateway port, with an estimated value of £96 million (approximately €112 million or $132 million) (DW). The UK's Home Office confirmed that this seizure ranks as the sixth-largest cocaine seizure on record since such records began (Al Jazeera). The cocaine was discovered hidden beneath dozens of shipping containers on a vessel that had arrived from Panama, and the operation involved specialized officers who worked with the port operator to access the hidden stash (DW).

Analysis

The claim that this seizure is the sixth-largest in UK history is supported by official statements from the Home Office, which is the UK's interior ministry responsible for immigration, security, and law and order (DW). The reliability of this source is high, as it is a government entity that provides verified information regarding law enforcement activities.

Additionally, other reputable news outlets, such as Al Jazeera and Sky News, corroborate this information, confirming the size of the seizure and its ranking in the historical context of cocaine seizures in the UK (Al Jazeera, Sky News). The consistency across multiple credible sources enhances the reliability of the claim.

While the source of the information is credible, it is important to note that the context of cocaine seizures can vary widely based on law enforcement priorities and the evolving nature of drug trafficking. The National Crime Agency (NCA) has previously reported on trends in cocaine smuggling, indicating that container ships are a primary method used by criminal organizations to transport drugs into the UK (DW). This context underscores the significance of the seizure in relation to ongoing drug-related issues in the country.

Conclusion

The claim that "this is the sixth-largest cocaine seizure in UK history" is True. The evidence provided by the Home Office and corroborated by multiple reputable news sources confirms the accuracy of this statement. The seizure's size and its historical ranking are well-documented and supported by reliable data.