Highland Council Trading Standards has seized a ‘significant quantity’ of illicit tobacco products, including counterfeit cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco, from a local retailer.
During targeted inspections as part of Operation CeCe – a National Trading Standards and HMRC-backed initiative to clamp down on illegal tobacco sales – Officers visited several premises accompanied by specially trained tobacco detection dogs.
The retailers were selected following the gathering of intelligence, including numerous complaints from members of the public.
At one of the premises Officers uncovered and seized a concealed stash of tobacco products which are suspected not to comply with the Tobacco Products (Traceability and Security Features) Regulations 2019. In cases of non-compliance, HMRC is able to apply a civil penalty, or sanction – for a first offence the maximum sanction is £10,000.
It is also criminal offence under the Trade Marks Act for retailers to have in their possession illicit goods – this can result in a fine of up to £5,000.
Highland Council Trading Standards Manager, David Mackenzie, said: “This seizure highlights the persistent efforts of our Trading Standards team to combat the illegal tobacco trade. These products not only evade taxes but also pose serious health risks to Highland residents. We will continue to take robust action against those involved in such criminal activities.
“The sale of illicit tobacco undermines public health and safety, as these products often fail to meet regulatory standards. Additionally, the illegal trade deprives the government of essential tax revenue, impacting public services and the wider community. Reputable local businesses are also adversely affected by the unfair competition.”
