Barking and Dagenham Trading Standards has seized almost 10,000 illegal cigarettes in a series of recent raids conducts as part of Operation CeCe.
With the support of specially trained tobacco detection dogs, Officers discovered sophisticated concealments such as electronic release mechanisms hidden behind false walls and compartments disguised within wall units.
The raids, carried out on 26 and 27 November, resulted in the seizure of 9,940 illegal cigarettes and 29 illegal disposable vapes, with a total street value of approximately £8,000.
Investigations are ongoing, with premises facing potential prosecution, license reviews, and additional sanctions.
Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, stated: “The success of these raids demonstrates our dedication to protecting public health and the economy from the dangers of illicit tobacco. The council’s Trading Standards team will continue to take strong action against those involved in this illegal trade.”
Operation CeCe is national initiative to tackle the sale and supply of illicit tobacco. It is funded by HMRC through the National Trading Standards (NTS).
