Cocaine worth millions of pounds has been seized by border officials during a check on a banana boat from South America.

The 40 kilos of cocaine was discovered by officers from the Border Force’s national deep rummage team, during a search of a cargo ship last Tuesday.

The MV Santa Lucia was carrying bananas from the South American island of Curacao.

No arrests have been made, and the ship has since been allowed to continue its journey while an investigation continues.

Paul Morgan, director of Border Force South East and Europe said: "Border Force officers are on constant alert to keep illegal drugs and other banned substances out of the UK.

“We are determined to prevent this terrible trade, which can have such a destructive impact on the lives of so many.”

Anyone with information about activity they suspect may be linked to smuggling should call the hotline on 0800 59 5000.