Missing trader VAT fraud involves obtaining VAT registration to purchase goods VAT-free from EU Member States. These goods are then sold at VAT inclusive prices, so that the fraudsters disappear without paying over the VAT paid by their customers to the tax authorities.
The Customs and Excise operation was launched with 30 raids in homes and business premises throughout the UK. Searches were also carried out in Holland.
Neil Dawe, of Newquay, Cornwall and Dean Simons, of Hinckley, Leicester were charged with VAT offences. Darren Cleveley, David Dwyer, and Brian Tucker, of Birmingham, were charged with money laundering offences, along with Leroy Mcintosh, of Berkswell in Coventry and Michael Marsden of Barking, Essex.
They were arrested on Tuesday, along with 16 other individuals. The investigation is continuing.
Editor's note 01/10/2018: Neil Dawe was found not guilty on all charges in orders made in 2006 and 2007.