West Midlands Police on May 23 stated that it is taking tough action against High Street stores which are funding organised crime through sales of illicit goods and fuelling anti-social behaviour and violence in Coventry.
According to the police statement, suspected drug dealers have been arrested and thousands of pounds worth of counterfeit tobacco and illegal vapes seized as we work with closely with partners.
Last week, the police's Serious Organised Crime and Exploitation team visited High Street stores in Coundon, Foleshill, Barras Green alongside its dog unit and drones' team.
During the visits, Coventry Council Trading Standards officers seized hundreds of counterfeit goods, illegal tobacco and vapes.
After an alert from police dog, officers were able to seize over 140 bags of Class B drugs from a store, and two men were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply.
Later on, a man was arrested for immigration offences. Trading Standards will review all the seizures and put in for closure orders on these stores selling illegal goods.
Sgt Kelly Eaves who works on our exploitation team, said: "The illegal sale of counterfeit cigarettes, vapes, and other goods is not harmless or low-level crime.
"It undermines honest, independent businesses that are operating in accordance with the law and is often linked to wider organised criminality including the exploitation of vulnerable people, violence and anti-social behaviour.
"Our priority is keeping the people of Coventry safe and supporting the local businesses that do the right thing every day. We will continue working closely with partners including Trading Standards to target those involved in this illegal activity and take action against the shops facilitating it."
Cllr John McNicholas, Coventry City Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Cohesion, said: "This is really positive news and highlights the excellent partnership work with our police colleagues.
"A lot of time and effort goes into these operations with Trading Standards involvement, and the close working makes a massive difference.
"This is an important warning to any traders who believe they can avoid criminal action when selling illicit products, we will help the Police in their efforts to counter these illegal activities.
"We would like to appeal to the public and ask them to avoid these illegal traders and go to legitimate retailers. Anyone can report businesses involved in criminal activities by contacting either the police on 101 or trading standards."