An investigation is underway after more than 93,000 illegal cigarettes were seized from a shop in Grimsby.
Officers from Humberside Police, working alongside North East Lincolnshire Council’s Trading Standards team, uncovered 93,120 illegal cigarettes during a search of premises on Freeman Street. They also seized 313 pouches of illicit tobacco and 348 illegal vapes.
The legitimate retail value of the tobacco products is estimated to be around £80,814, while their street value is believed to be just over £25,000. The seized vapes are thought to be worth approximately £3,500.
No arrests have been made in connection with the raid and enquiries are ongoing.
“While it is great to see that we are taking these products off the streets, we understand there is more work to do,” said Councillor Ron Shepherd, Portfolio Holder for Safer and Stronger Communities.
“Operation CeCe and the partnership work with Humberside Police has allowed us to take great steps forward in ensuring these products are less readily available, but that doesn’t mean we stop. We know there are more sellers of these products and I want those people to know that our teams will continue with these inspections and to act upon information we receive to ensure the safety of those living in North East Lincolnshire.”
Part of the Gi Grimsby News team since 2020.