Blaenau Gwent Trading Standards, supported by Trading Standards Wales and National Trading Standards, recently carried out two days of enforcement activity aimed at tackling the supply of illegal tobacco products in the area.
Officers found and seized illegal cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco at various retail premises and vehicles associated with them. They seized 46,119 cigarettes and 20.9kg of hand-rolling tobacco in total.
Officers were supported by specialist tobacco detection dogs from BWY Canine, including super sniffer YoYo.
Richard Crook, Director of Regeneration & Community Services said:
“The supply of illegal tobacco products brings crime into our neighbourhoods. It has been shown that this activity allows children to access cigarettes and tobacco at pocket money prices. It also damages established legitimate businesses who are trading lawfully and abiding by the rules.
“Tackling the illegal trade in tobacco is a top priority for Blaenau Gwent Council. Smoking continues to contribute to more premature deaths in Wales than any other cause. Smoking cheap illegal tobacco products enables young people to get hooked and hinders more established smokers in efforts to kick the habit.”
Information regarding the supply of illegal tobacco in Blaenau Gwent and other areas is welcomed and can be provided by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or the Citizens Advice Consumer Service at https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/get-more-help/if-you-need-more-help-about-a-consumer-issue/
This can be anonymous.