Fake cigarettes, booze,seized

TRADING Standards chiefs at Warrington have seized large quantities of cigarettes, tobacco and liquor with fake labelling over the last two months.
A total of 5,432 packets of cigarettes, 900g of tobacco and 7.5 litres of vodka seized by the Warrington and Halton Trading Standards team.
More than 20 visits were made to various shops in June and July
to monitor illicit tobacco and alcohol available in the area.
Cllr David Keane, lead member for environment and public protection at Warrington Borough Council, said: “The impact of the sale of such items should not be underestimated – the effects on businesses selling legitimate products can be substantial and intelligence received prior to these visits indicated that some of the items seized were being supplied to children.
“Some of the cigarettes were being offered for as little as £2.50 per packet and were hidden in such unusual places as behind a panel under a sink unit in a storeroom.”
Pete Astley, public protection manager and regional lead on illicit tobacco, said: “The team’s investigations are on-going and further visits are likely as a result of the successful work already carried out.
“Unscrupulous dealers could be looking for teenage customers over the school holidays so we are urging all people, especially parents in Warrington, to keep an eye out so we can keep illegal tobacco off the streets this summer. These things are being sold out there so we want people to remain aware and report any concerns.
“If any members of the public, and mums and dads, have any concerns about where illegal cigarettes and other goods are being sold, they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”