8000 illegal cigarettes hidden behind a false wall seized in Flintshire shop raids

Around 8000 cigarettes have been seized in a joint operation to combat the sale of illegal tobacco in Flintshire

Flintshire Trading Standards, Neighbourhood Wardens and North Wales Police seized the cigarettes and hand rolling tobacco in raids on stores in Flint and Holywell

Investigations into the source of the haul are still ongoing police say.

The operation was supported by specialist tobacco sniffer dogs who located the tobacco that had been hidden away a behind a false wall and in a false ceiling above a toilet.

Sgt Mike Wilson of Flintshire North safer neighbourhood team said:

“This is an excellent outcome for those agencies involved. This shows by working together we can make a real impact in dealing with issues within the community. I would encourage anyone who can offer information into this type of crime to report it to your local policing team on tel: 101 or via crime stoppers, tel: 0800 555 111”

Richard Powell, Flintshire’s Team Leader for Trading Standards Investigations and Community Safety said:

“This is an excellent example of partnership working between enforcement agencies as we continue our success in reducing the availability of illegal tobacco. Fewer people are buying illegal tobacco and fewer people are now prepared to turn a blind eye to it. People can make a real difference to help keep more illegal tobacco off the streets by reporting it. We need to keep the pressure up on those who continue to sell it.”

Councillor Kevin Jones, Flintshire Cabinet member for Public Protection said:

“The sale of cheap illegal tobacco makes it easier for young people to start smoking and get addicted and makes it harder for smokers who want to give up break the habit. Far from being a victimless crime the trade in illegal tobacco has serious consequences for crime and health in the community and causes economic detriment to legitimate local businesses.”

Anyone wanting to report sales of illegal tobacco can do so to Trading Standards on 03454 040506.