Blackpool investigation finds glass and rat droppings in dodgy cigarettes being sold
Counterfeit and smuggled tobacco worth more than £130,000 were destroyed after being seized from shops across Blackpool.
A year long operation by Blackpool Council’s Trading Standards team targeted the sale and supply of illicit tobacco products across the resort, leading to huge amounts being recovered. Analysis of the seized tobacco found that some contained glass and rat droppings. As a result, huge quantities of smuggled and counterfeit tobacco were taken off the market and have now been destroyed with the help of ENVECO – Blackpool Council’s Waste management service.
This operation took place as part of Operation CeCe, a National Trading Standards scheme in partnership with HMRC to tackle illegal tobacco sales. With the support of this national initiative, the council’s Trading Standards team have increased the number and frequency of visits that they have been able to carry out with retailers in the Blackpool area.
Cllr Paula Burdess, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Street Scene and Neighbourhoods, said: “Not only is it illegal but there is also a high risk of these tobacco products causing serious harm to the health of residents and visitors. "I am delighted at the success of this targeted operation as it sends out a clear message of zero tolerance, and we will continue to disrupt the sale of these products. Appropriate enforcement action will be taken against anyone involved in the sale and supply of illicit tobacco products.”
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