The operation was carried out by both the Royal Borough of Greenwich and the Metropolitan Police on Saturday, June 21.
They were acting in response to reports of retailers selling counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco products.
The operation saw test purchasers attend two premises in Woolwich and one in Greenwich with the help of a specialist tobacco detection dog.
One of the premises, located on Trafalgar Road, was found to have a sophisticated concealment system involving electronically operated magnetic locks.
A “significant quantity” of illegal tobacco products was found and seized.
An even more elaborate set-up was discovered at the property on Hare Street, hidden behind a fully operational kitchen.
Officers accessed this concealed area via a false door beneath a sink, finding illegal products stored in fridges.
Thousands of pounds worth of counterfeit and non-duty paid cigarettes, tobacco, and illegal vapes were seized.
At the third location on Herbert Road, an individual attempted to flee but was quickly detained by police.
The individual was found carrying a large bag containing tobacco and £970 in cash.
Further illegal goods were discovered in a search of their vehicle alongside three iPhones believed to be stolen.
Investigations into these items are ongoing.
The combined illicit market value of the goods is estimated at over £18,000, but the retail value could have exceeded £30,000 if sold at full price.
In total, officers seized 2,242 packets of cigarettes, 154 pouches of hand-rolling tobacco, and 570 vapes.
Councillor Rachel Taggart-Ryan, cabinet member for community safety and enforcement, said: “This enforcement action sends a clear message that the illegal sale of tobacco and vaping products will not be tolerated in our borough.
“These activities not only pose serious health risks to consumers but also undermine the legitimate businesses in our borough.
“We will continue to work alongside the police and other partners to tackle illegal activity and support law-abiding businesses, to ensure everyone in Greenwich is safer, and feels safer.”
The council will now carry out further investigations and enforcement, including the potential prosecution of the retailers.
