More than £19,000 worth of illegal tobacco has been seized in a crackdown in Barking and Dagenham.
Officers seized more than 25,000 illicit cigarettes and more than 100 packs of hand-rolling tobacco from six premises following raids across two days.
On September 25 and 27, trading standards officers carried out inspections at 13 locations after receiving information from resident complaints and undercover investigations.
The operation targeted shops that had previously failed test purchases and uncovered sophisticated concealments and chutes used to hide illegal products.
Thanks to highly-trained tobacco detection dogs, officers were able to find and seize the hidden goods, which had a combined street value of £19,061.
The sale of illicit tobacco is often linked to organised crime, people trafficking, and exploitation.
Councillor Syed Ghani, cabinet member for enforcement and community safety, said: “This operation sends a clear message that we will not tolerate illegal tobacco sales in our borough.
“These products not only harm public health but also fuel criminal networks.
“I want to thank our trading standards team for their tireless work in protecting residents and keeping our communities safe.”
Anyone who suspects a shop is selling illegal cigarettes or vapes is asked to report it to: tradingstandards@lbbd.gov.uk or Citizens Advice Consumer Services on 0808 223 1133.
