Staffordshire Police have dealt a significant blow to counterfeit tobacco and vape sellers in Uttoxeter by seizing thousands of illegal items valued at nearly £14,000 in a recent raid.
The crackdown was part of the nationwide Winter of Action campaign targeting crime hotspots. In December, East Staffordshire police collaborated with Trading Standards to raid a local shop suspected of selling counterfeit goods.
During the operation, staff attempted to dispose of fake tobacco by throwing it onto the roof, but officers quickly noticed the attempt. Authorities also uncovered a secret delivery system at the back of the premises, which was used to smuggle illegal products from an upstairs storeroom directly to the shop floor.
The haul included 6,360 suspected counterfeit cigarettes, 3.6kg of hand rolling tobacco, and 1,666 illegal vape products. The street value of the seized goods is just under £14,000.
Staffordshire Police and Trading Standards have pledged to maintain their efforts against the sale of fake tobacco and vaping products. These illegal items pose risks to public health and undermine legitimate businesses.
“We won’t let those selling counterfeit goods get away,” said a police spokesperson. “This operation sends a clear message that we’re on their trail.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
