Four shops targeted in tobacco and vape raids

THOUSANDS of illegal cigarettes and vapes have been seized from four stores and a vehicle.

Around 140 illegal vapes and 12,000 cigarettes were seized during a joint operation carried out by Darlington Borough Council’s trading standards team and police officers from Durham Constabulary.

In addition, 6.5kg of handrolling tobacco was discovered and seized, with the help of tobacco detection dogs from private detection dog service BWY Canine.

The operation took place earlier this month following a test purchase exercise which netted 11 sales of illegal cigarettes from 11 attempts.

Shaun Trevor, who led the operation on behalf of the council’s trading standards team, said: “These vital multi-agency operations are designed to disrupt and frustrate the supply of illegal products.

“If you sell illegal vapes or cigarettes, especially to children, then expect a visit from us.

“We would also encourage residents and businesses to report any concerns about any suspected illegal products. We take complaints seriously and will investigate them all, and take action where appropriate.”

This latest raids, aimed to tackle the root of the problem as well as removing illegal goods from sale, resulted in the seizure of illegal goods worth almost £12,500. It formed part of Operation Nightstar, a trading standards and police operation targeting illegal vape and cigarette sellers with a focus on those who sell to children.

The total value of seized goods thus far as part of this operation is just over £335,000 over a two-year period.

Seizures of illegal goods such as over-strength vapes and tobacco products were made in Darlington from Corner Shop, Northgate; UK Mini Market, Victoria Road; Ali’s, Whitby Way, and Darlo Vapes, High Northgate. A vehicle was also stopped and found to contain a large quantity of the illegal goods.

The premises were all visited following complaints from members of the public.

All traders were given advice on the law particularly in relation to underage sales and reminded of their obligations.

Lord Michael Bichard, chair of National Trading Standards, said: “Having removed 27 million illegal cigarettes, 7,500kg of hand-rolling tobacco and almost 175kg of shisha products from sale, the National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HMRC continues to successfully disrupt this illicit trade.”