F1 Under Drugs Squad Investigation.

Formula One has been connected with an investigation into drug smuggling it was alleged in the British press this weekend.


A report in The Sunday Times claims that the grand prix paddock at Silverstone was searched by the drug squad in the run-up to this weekend's British Grand Prix, and added that customs officials at the channel port of Dover have been monitoring the movement of F1 personnel and equipment.


The investigation appears to have stemmed from claims made by an unnamed informant from within the sport just over a year ago. Detectives involved in the investigation have since revealed that the source believed cocaine and other drugs were being imported to Britain using race cars and transporters as cover.


Although the majority of F1 personnel are not thought to be involved, Scotland Yard believes that a number of 'rogue individuals' may be taking advantage of the fact that the teams are treated with reverence, and are able to proceed unhindered through customs checks. This now looks likely to change.


"We have previously been successful in finding drugs in vehicles associated with motor racing teams" said Nigel Knott, customs spokesman for SE England, "and Formula One teams will be treated to the same level of scrutiny."


An initial Scotland Yard investigation - codenamed Operation Equipment - apparently proved inconclusive F1 guru Bernie Ecclestone is understood to have offered his - and the FIA's - full co-operation with the investigation, although he claims to know of no-one in the sport who may be involved.


"He did not have any knowledge or evidence that individuals within F1 were doing anything of the sort," said an aide, "If he had had evidence, he would have taken it to the police."