Over 30,000 counterfeit cigarettes seized in Wolverhampton crackdown

More than 30,000 fake cigarettes have been seized in Wolverhampton following a major crackdown.

A total of 30,532 counterfeit or duty free cigarettes and 5.450kg of tobacco were found using sniffer dogs in illegal tobacco hotspots.

The dogs managed to help uncover cigarettes stored in some unusual places, including hidden underneath a shelving unit that had a concealed area secured by a powerful electro magnet.

Action is set to be taken against the owners of premises where the goods was seized and further investigations are planned to track the suppliers.

Councillor John Reynolds, Wolverhampton City Council's city services boss, said: "Crackdowns such as this one are about protecting the public and legitimate businesses and the quantity seized highlights the value of these operations.

"Counterfeit cigarettes pose even greater health risks than legitimate ones as they often contain far more carbon monoxide and nicotine.

"Having dangerous, illegal tobacco easily available also undermines the work being carried out by the city's public health teams in helping residents, particularly young people, quit smoking and lead healthier lives.

"It is also worth remembering that the sale of such items robs the public purse of money that could fund essential services.

"Using the sniffer dogs proved to be extremely worthwhile as they enhanced the operation and helped officers seize material that otherwise might not have been detected.

"We are determined to clamp down on illegal operations such as this and we will not hesitate to take action against anyone involved in these practices."

In September, a two-day operation involving police officers from the St Peter's and Park Neighbourhood team and Wolverhampton trading standards resulted in 20,000 illegal cigarettes being seized.

The Local Government Association have previously said efforts to reduce smoking and improve health were being hampered by the illicit trade, which also costs the UK economy around £3 billion a year in unpaid duty.