A truck driver in the U.K. has been sentenced to prison after authorities allegedly uncovered millions of dollars’ worth of cocaine hidden inside a shipment carrying SKIMS products. The case quickly drew attention because the cargo included clothing linked to Kim Kardashian’s popular shapewear label. However, officials stressed that the SKIMS shipment itself was legitimate and not connected to the alleged drug trafficking scheme. Investigators said the narcotics were concealed in specially modified compartments within the truck.
Officials said the SKIMS cargo was legitimate and not tied to the smuggling
According to the U.K.’s National Crime Agency, Polish driver Jakub Jan Konkel, 40, was sentenced after authorities uncovered around 90 kilograms of cocaine hidden inside his truck. The drugs were estimated to have a street value of nearly £7 million, or roughly $9.4 million.
Officials claimed Konkel was transporting 28 pallets of underwear and clothing from SKIMS when Border Force officers stopped him at the Port of Harwich in Essex last September. The truck had reportedly arrived by ferry from the Netherlands before being selected for inspection. After scanning the vehicle, investigators allegedly discovered hidden compartments built into the truck’s rear doors. Inside, they said they found dozens of one-kilogram packages of cocaine.
Authorities further alleged that Konkel had collected the drugs during a stop made earlier in the journey. According to investigators, he initially denied knowing anything about the narcotics. However, officials later claimed he admitted to transporting the cocaine in exchange for a payment of approximately 4,500 euros, or about $5,276.
Despite the high-profile attention surrounding the shipment, authorities repeatedly clarified that the SKIMS cargo itself was lawful. The National Crime Agency stated that neither the exporter nor the importer associated with the clothing shipment was believed to be connected to the alleged trafficking operation. Officials emphasized that the fashion products were part of a legitimate commercial delivery (via AP News).
Meanwhile, Border Force Assistant Director Jason Thorn praised the seizure in a statement released after the sentencing. “These drugs destroy lives and inflict misery on our communities,” he said. “This significant interception is testament to the brilliant work of Border Force.”
Konkel was ultimately sentenced to 13 years and six months in prison in connection with the case, according to authorities.
