Illegal tobacco seized

MORE than 15,000 illegal cigarettes and 4.7kg of hand rolling tobacco were seized from two premises in Warrington.
The illicit products were seized during inspection visits conducted by the council’s Trading Standards team and attended by Police as part of Operation Henry, which cracks down on the supply of illicit tobacco across nine regions in England.
As part of the operation, each region receives eight days of dog detection provided by Wagtail UK, funded by the Department of Health.
Ozzie, a Black Labrador, and Milo, a Springer Spaniel, helped detect the concealed stashes of tobacco at two premises that were visited.
Warrington Borough Council Assistant Director of Public Protection, Peter Astley, said: “Those involved in dealing in illegal tobacco may be encouraging people, including children to smoke by providing a cheap source. The detection dogs can find tobacco and cigarettes even if hidden in the most unlikely places. Offenders need to know that they will face consequences if they choose to deal in these illegal products.”
The seizure included ‘illicit white’, non-duty paid and counterfeit tobacco which cannot be legally sold in the UK. The visits were conducted as a result of information provided by the public.
Andrea Crossfield, Chief Executive of Tobacco Free Futures said: “It’s great to see action taking place in Warrington against the supply of illegal tobacco, hitting local supply chains and warning dealers that sales will not be tolerated.
“The illegal trade undermines the effectiveness of efforts to reduce smoking and unfortunately is accessible through many sources within some communities, making it easier for children to start smoking and enabling them to become hooked at a young age. Cheap cigarettes also make it easier for non-smokers to start and ex-smokers to relapse.
“Local knowledge about offenders is vital to stamp out illegal tobacco in our communities, improve health and protect children. If you have information you would like to share you can anonymously report using Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or your local trading standards team.”