Illegal Vapes and Tobacco Seized in Dover Police Raid
Dover’s Community Safety Unit, teamed up with Kent County Council’s Trading Standards, swooped on local shops on Wednesday 3 July 2024. The squad targeted businesses suspected of selling illegal goods across the district.
Seven Shops Inspected, Illegal Goods Found
Officers inspected seven shops, uncovering counterfeit tobacco in one and fake vapes in another. The seizure included over 3,000 cigarettes, 2kg of hand-rolling tobacco, and a staggering 1,000 illicit vapes.
PC Ben Goff Warns of Organised Crime Links
“This work was carried out after we received information about the sale of illegal goods in the area,” said Dover town beat officer PC Ben Goff. “Illicit tobacco sales often fund organised criminal gangs, which harms the whole community. We take all reports seriously and continue supporting Trading Standards’ investigation.”
Trading Standards Vow to Crack Down
A Kent County Council Trading Standards spokesman hailed the operation as a “huge success,” stressing the power of partnership working.
“We will keep targeting those individuals and businesses that hurt both our communities and the legitimate economy,” the spokesman added. “Anyone suspecting illegal tobacco sales can report it at www.stop-illegal-tobacco.co.uk or contact Crimestoppers.”
