Police and trading standards have warned shopkeepers after counterfeit tobacco with a street value of more than £9,500 was seized.

Last Wednesday (25 April), police in Hyndburn conducted a ‘day of action’ in the Huncoat area. The aim was to work with partner agencies to target criminal activity and anti-social behaviour in the area. 

Police and trading standards visited several shops where they discovered three purpose-built concealments. 

A police spokesperson said: “We seized illicit products from all of the shops visited which included 966 packs of cigarettes, a quantity of hand-rolling tobacco and a number of vapes with a street value of over £9,500.

“The illegal trade in these products is widespread, with some unscrupulous retailers deliberately selling illicit goods, often to children. Cheap, illicit tobacco encourages children to smoke, and the sale of illegal products impacts on legitimate businesses and the health of our communities.

“If you know of any businesses selling illegal tobacco or vapes, please let Trading Standards know by contacting the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 0808 2231133.”