Over 240,000 Cigarettes were Seized in Kent, UK
The Raid Scene | Source: Convenience Store
Eight stores in Gravesend, Kent were raided resulting in the seizure of 242,500 cigarettes and 1,516 pouches of tobacco, reports the Convenience Store (conveniencestore.co.uk).
On 3 and 4 April, North Kent's Community Safety Unit, Gravesham Council, Kent Trading Standards, HMRC and Home Office Immigration Enforcement team conducted raids that resulted in an estimated street value of £76,000 worth of seized goods.
The largest single seizure
The largest single seizure the team has secured of illegal tobacco products was found in the tunnel consisting of more than 148,000 cigarettes and 1,315 pouches of tobacco this time. During the operation, illegal vapes were also seized.
Inspector James Beautridge stated that the raids in Gravesend showed the extent to which some retailers would go to hide illicit tobacco products from authorities. The sale of illicit cigarettes poses a serious health hazard and interferes with lawful businesses. Kent Police is committed to collaborating with partner agencies to prevent the illegal sale of tobacco products, and to hold offenders accountable for their actions. This emphasizes the importance of operations such as this one to enforce regulations and ensure public safety.
Also read:
[1] 6 Elux Products Recalled by UK Distributor Booker
[2] UK Aims to Cut Smoking Rate to 5% by Offering Vapes for Smokers
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