A fishing catamaran that was seized by government agencies off the coast of Cornwall after being involved in one of the UK’s largest maritime drug busts will be offered at auction next week
A fishing catamaran named Lily Lola which was seized following an organised crime group’s attempts to smuggle over £100m worth of cocaine into the UK will now be sold to the highest bidder.
During a dramatic operation, the vessel was intercepted off the coast of Cornwall and confiscated under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) after more than a tonne of class A drugs was discovered concealed on board.
The plotters of the plan were sentenced to a combined total of over 90 years in prison and the upcoming sale presents the chance for a new owner to give the boat a new life. Instructed on behalf of government agencies, Wilsons Auctions will offer the fully equipped fishing catamaran in its upcoming Unreserved Prestige Government Auction.
The auction provides an opportunity for a buyer to secure a durable vessel designed for offshore capability and the fact that the auction is unreserved is expected to generate much interest. Potentially interested parties could include marine enthusiasts or commercial operations looking to acquire a capable vessel and the almost eight metre long boat comes with a full commercial licence package. This means it could be made immediately operational for commercial fishing or charter activities.
Wilsons Auctions’ Contracts Director Craig Walker said: “We are delighted to manage the sale of this high-profile asset. It is reported that the Lily Lola was intercepted by government agencies carrying over £100m worth of cocaine during a major operation — and that is why the vessel is now being offered for sale by auction.
“We are proud to facilitate auctions on behalf of our government and law enforcement agency clients. We play an important role in realising a large quantity of assets on behalf of these clients and, in recent years, these auctions have seen us return over £150m back into the public purse.
“The online element of the auction is extremely convenient for bidders around the world to register and get involved. This will be an exciting one to watch.”
All lots in the auction will be sold with no reserve, including the 2010 Cougar Catamaran.
As with all Lots in the upcoming auction, the Lily Lola will be sold with no reserve. The boat will feature alongside a catalogue of luxury assets including supercars, powerboats, designer goods, and high-end watches.
The boat is currently located in South Devon, UK with an auction guide price of £80,000. The auction will take place from November 12, until November 14. Viewing appointments will be available to arrange via contacting Christian Owen on +44 (0) 1244812811 or by emailing christianowen@wilsonsauctions.com.
Interested bidders can view the full auction catalogue and all information by visiting here.
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