Massive Tobacco and Vape Raid Hits Maidstone High Street
On Wednesday, August 17, police swooped on four town centre shops across Week Street, Lower Stone Street, and Knightrider Street. The haul was staggering: over 15,000 cigarettes, nearly seven kilos of rolling tobacco, and a whopping 1,025 vapes were seized.
Illegal Goods Hidden in Bins and Backrooms
Some contraband was cleverly stashed away, with a large quantity of tobacco recovered from bins behind one premises. Authorities are cracking down hard on shops selling dodgy vapes and tobacco products.
Trading Standards Crack Down on dodgy vapes
“We’ve been working with local retailers to advise on disposable vape devices,” said KCC’s Principal Trading Standards Officer Oliver Jewell. “But a small number still sell illegal vapes that haven’t passed safety checks designed to protect users.”
Jewell warned that illegal tobacco fuels neighbourhood crime and makes smoking cheaper for young people and those tempted to quit but put off by costs. “We’ll keep targeting shops to keep our high streets safe,” he added.
Counterfeit Goods and Organised Crime Targeted
Officers also found over 1,300 counterfeit items at one business—phone accessories, watches, jewellery, and clothing. Inspector Dave Crompton from Maidstone Community Safety Unit revealed these shops often link to serious crimes like money laundering and human trafficking.
“We target premises selling illicit tobacco and fakes as they attract anti-social behaviour and harm local legitimate businesses. Inspections will continue while investigations run,” said Crompton.
See Something? Say Something!
Spot illegal tobacco shops? Report them anonymously by calling 0300 999 6999 or visiting www.stop-illegal-tobacco.co.uk.
