Newham Trading Standards seizes more than £70,000 worth of illegal tobacco and vapes as part of national crackdown – Newham Council

As part of a national initiative called Operation CeCe, officers seized 60,000 cigarettes, 100kg of hookah, 350g of hand-rolled tobacco, 5.5kg of chewing tobacco, 175 oversized vapes and various other non-compliant or illegal products in years 15 and 16. June.

This significant volume was uncovered through a co-ordinated effort with officers inspecting retail premises in Newham, with businesses identified through direct intelligence and partnership working.

The continued use of the information led to the seizure of almost £85,000 worth of illicit, non-compliant and counterfeit goods. Over the weekend alone, 15 businesses were visited, nine of which were found to be selling illegal products.

During the operation, officers discovered five hidden storage areas full of illegal goods, suggesting the involvement of organized crime gangs operating in the district. Most of the seized tobacco was duty-free and could be smuggled into the country, with some suspected to be counterfeit versions of popular brands. These counterfeit products pose significant risks as they often contain harmful substances and may not be self-extinguishing, increasing the risk of fire.

Operation CeCe promotes collaboration between National Trading Standards and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). Ongoing investigations will include a thorough review of seized products to determine specific crimes. Those prosecuted and convicted of involvement in the illegal sale or supply of tobacco face severe penalties, including up to ten years in prison and unlimited fines.

The operation was supported by Newham Public Health, helping to protect the health of Newham residents, and Wagtail UK Ltd (a sniffer dog company).

Newham Council is urging residents who have information about the illegal sale of tobacco to report it via the Citizens Advice consumer advice line on 0808 223 1133 or anonymously via the London Trading Standards website.

Reports of fake, illegal, unsafe products or the sale of age-restricted products to minors can also be made via the London Trading Standards consumer crime tool at: www.londontradingstandards.org.uk/report-consumer-crime/