Large quantities of illicit tobacco seized in Middlesbrough crackdown

Warrants were issued for three properties in the Eston area to crack down on the problem.

The operation was carried out by Redcar and Cleveland trading standards in partnership with Cleveland Police as part of a multi-agency effort to tackle the supply and distribution of illicit tobacco.

Cabinet Member for Health, Welfare and Housing Support, Cllr Ursula Earl, said: “The trade in illicit tobacco harms local communities and affects honest businesses operating within the law.

“The National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HRMC is playing a significant role in disrupting this illicit trade and is helping to take illicit tobacco products off the streets.”

Lord Michael Bichard, chair of National Trading Standards, said: “The illicit tobacco trade is driven by organised criminal gangs and poses serious risks to local communities, especially young people.

“Since its launch in January 2021, Operation CeCe – a National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HMRC – has removed 102 million illegal cigarettes.”

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council say further investigations will be undertaken by the relevant enforcement authorities.