LONDON (AP) - A British court has sentenced a truck driver to prison for his involvement in smuggling cocaine valued at 7 million pounds ($9.4 million) hidden within a legitimate shipment of underwear and clothing from Skims, the shapewear brand founded by Kim Kardashian. The sentencing took place following an operation conducted by the National Crime Agency (NCA). The authorities announced the verdict on Monday.

Jakub Jan Konkel, a 40-year-old driver, was apprehended at a port in Essex while transporting a truck laden with 28 pallets of Skims clothing imported from the Netherlands. The incident occurred in September, when border officials stopped Konkel’s truck for inspection. During the investigation, it was revealed that he had made an unscheduled stop prior to reaching the port, where he collected 90 kilograms (198 pounds) of cocaine.

The NCA elaborated that Konkel's truck had been specially modified to conceal the drugs, which were packed in 1-kilogram (2.2-pound) wrappers stored in a hidden compartment located in the back doors of the vehicle. Officials emphasized that the shipment of clothing itself was fully legitimate, and both the exporter and importer were found to have no connections to the smuggled cocaine.

According to the agency, Konkel admitted to agreeing to transport the narcotics for a payment of 4,500 euros ($5,243). His actions were recognized as a significant violation of drug trafficking laws, leading the Chelmsford Crown Court to impose a sentence of 13 and a half years in prison for his offenses.

This case highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking strategies that utilize legitimate cargo to transport illegal substances. The NCA continues to focus on identifying and prosecuting individuals involved in such illicit activities, ensuring that those who exploit the supply chain for criminal purposes face severe legal consequences.