Illegal cigarettes, vapes seized from Loughborough, Melton shops

Large quantity of illegal cigarettes and vapes have been seized during raids in a number of shops in Loughborough and Melton, stated recent reports.

According to local reports, Leicestershire Police, working with Trading Standards, immigration officers and Leicestershire search dogs, raided a number of shops that were suspected of selling illegal smoking and vaping products on Thursday (9).

In an update shared by Leicestershire’s Trading Standards, the department stated that it is always a pleasure to carry out joint illegal tobacco visits with Melton Police and Charnwood Police.

“Also Jack, the tobacco detection dog, who is an important part of the team. During the operation yesterday, we seized a large quantity of illegal cigarettes and vapes. Illegal tobacco is linked to underage sales to children, creates an unfair trading environment for law-abiding businesses and plays a part in organised crime linked to people trafficking and drug smuggling.”

The joint operation has been hailed as a success, with Melton police officers posting a photo to their Facebook page sharing what they seized from just a single shop. One officer can be seen posing next to four clear bags filled with illicit cigarettes, vapes, and tobacco.

“Officers have conducted raids on shops suspected of selling illegal tobacco, illegal cigarettes and illegal vapes. This was carried out in both Loughborough and Melton,” Melton police posted on Facebook.