Kent Police Bust Massive Illegal Tobacco Ring in Hythe
Kent Police, teamed up with Trading Standards, have dealt a heavy blow to a major illegal tobacco operation in Hythe. Last week’s raid led to the seizure of nearly 100kg of smuggled tobacco and close to £30,000 in cash.
Suspect Van Nabbed on the A20
On Tuesday, 20 January, neighbourhood officers in Newingreen stopped a suspicious van on the A20. A thorough search uncovered a huge stash of illegal tobacco, immediately confiscated by Trading Standards. This clampdown forms part of wider checks ensuring local businesses play fair.
Secret Tobacco Stash Found on Hythe High Street
Further raids on Hythe High Street uncovered a hidden hideaway beneath a shop counter, believed to house counterfeit tobacco products. Immigration Enforcement also joined in to dig deeper into possible criminal connections.
Officials Vow to Crush Illicit Tobacco Trade
Carlo Capozzi, Community Safety Unit Inspector for Folkestone and Hythe, warned: “Organised crime uses illegal tobacco profits to fuel other offences. Thanks to strong local intelligence and close community ties, we’re hitting offenders hard.”
Jim Whiddett, Kent Trading Standards Operations Manager, added: “Illicit tobacco undercuts honest businesses and feeds organised crime. It also makes smoking cheaper and easier for young people.”
The public is urged to report suspicious sales anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
