Dodgy cigs and vapes raids find illegal goods stashed in padlocked fridge and hidden under floorboards

Almost 22,000 illegal cigarettes and 350 illegal vapes have been uncovered during raids across five shops and takeaways in Bolton. In a joint operation with Greater Manchester Police, trading standards raided a string of premises on Friday, September 20 which included takeaways, off licences and vape shops.

The raids took place after intelligence from members of the public that the illegal products were being sold. In one of the premises cigarettes were found in a padlocked fridge and at another, vapes were found hidden under the floor.

False panelling in a rear store area also housed illegal vapes in another shop. The shop owners, who have not been named or the premises disclosed are now subject to criminal investigation.

Seizures were down to several factors including non-duty paid, foreign labelling and suspected counterfeit. Coun Sue Haworth, Bolton Council’s cabinet member for regulatory services, said: “Once again, the council has proved its commitment to a zero-tolerance approach on illegal cigarettes and vapes.

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“These goods are unregulated, contain harmful substances and can be seriously damaging to health. “With the support of the police, trading standards will not stop until they have eradicated these dangerous products off the streets of our borough.

“We thank the public who speak up against these traders and encourage anyone to come forward and report illegal or suspected illegal sales of cigarettes and vapes.” Similar raids in the summer of 2023 saw two tonnes of illegal tobacco and e-cigarettes seized from rogue shops in Bolton.