Police Smash Fake Tobacco and Vape Ring in Uttoxeter
Staffordshire Police have dealt a major blow to counterfeit tobacco and vape sellers in Uttoxeter. Officers seized thousands of illegal items valued at nearly £14,000 in a recent raid.
Winter of Action Sting Uncovers Secret Smuggling
The crackdown was part of the nationwide Winter of Action campaign targeting crime hotspots. Last December, East Staffordshire police teamed up with Trading Standards to swoop on a local shop suspected of selling counterfeit goods.
Staff tried to dump fake tobacco by throwing it onto the roof, but officers spotted the stunt. They also uncovered a secret delivery system at the back of the premises, used to smuggle illegal products from an upstairs storeroom straight to the shop floor.
Huge Haul of Counterfeit Cigarettes and Vapes
- 6,360 suspected counterfeit cigarettes
- 3.6kg of hand rolling tobacco
- 1,666 illegal vape products
The street value of the seized goods is just shy of £14,000.
Police Pledge Tough Ongoing Crackdown
Staffordshire Police and Trading Standards vow to keep up the fight against fake tobacco and vaping gear. These illegal products not only endanger public health but also undercut legitimate businesses.
“We won’t let those selling counterfeit goods get away,” said a police spokesperson. “This operation sends a clear message that we’re on their trail.”
