Hundreds of illicit cigarettes seized
HUNDREDS of illicit cigarettes have been seized from shops in Bacup and Haslingden after they were found to be hiding in secret compartments.
Trading Standards officers said cavities had been excavated into walls behind electronicallyoperated sliding wall panels at the shops.
More than 1,200 packs of the illegal products, which would be worth over £14,000 if sold as genuine, were found along with packs in a vehicle outside a third shop.
The names of the shops have not been released.
Lancashire County Council said the seizures - which we reported initial details of last week - followed intelligence from members of the public and from other enforcement agencies.
During the last 12 months, there have been 20 convictions in cases brought by Trading Standards at local courts for the supply of illicit tobacco.
County Coun Albert
Atkinson, cabinet member for technical services, rural affairs and waste management, said: “These traders had gone to some lengths to hide their haul of counterfeit tobacco.
“The sophisticated hiding places we are currently finding demonstrate the value of this illegal trade.
“Our officers often find packs stashed away in electronically operated secret compartments under counters and in walls, or hidden in vehicles and store rooms.
“Cheap illicit tobacco is readily available to young people and encourages them to smoke and become addicted.
“The sale and manufacture of illegal tobacco has a negative impact on legitimate local businesses, and on our communities and young people. We are determined to tackle this type of crime.”
If you would like to report any businesses you suspect of supplying illicit tobacco, contact Lancashire Trading Standards team via the Citizen’s Advice helpline on 0808 223 1133.