Two illicit bio-diesel production plants have been dismantled by customs following an operation in Peterhead.

HM Revenue & Customers (HMRC), assisted by officers from Grampian Police, raided two storage facilities close to Peterhead town centre on Thursday where they uncovered the illegal fuel plants.

During the searches officers seized nearly 4000 litres of illicit fuel, 750 litres of methanol, 200 litres of kerosene, pumps, equipment and business records.

Two men have been questioned by HMRC in relation to the raids and investigations are continuing.

Graeme Anderson, assistant director of HMRC Specialist Investigations, said: "Illegal bio-diesel sites and those involved are creating a cheap and unregulated supply that honest producers cannot compete with. They rob taxpayers of millions each year in unpaid duty and VAT, funds that could be used for essential services in our communities.

"Before buying cheap fuel motorists need to consider the real costs - although you may think you are getting a bargain, you really have no idea what you are paying for. Buying illicit fuel not only funds crime, but it also supports and encourages these dangerous activities within our communities.

"Anyone with information about this kind of activity or fuel misuse in their area should contact our free telephone hotline 0800 59 5000."