3,500 illegal cigarettes and 5.1 kilograms of hand-rolling with an estimated retail value of £15,000 and a van have been seized after an operation to tackle the illegal tobacco was carried out on Midland Road in Bedford last week (28 February).
Bedford Borough Council’s Trading Standards Officers, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and Bedfordshire Police carried out test purchases at two premises on Midland Road leading to the seizure of illegal tobacco found in a van shared by the two shops.
Investigations into those responsible for the seized tobacco are ongoing, with the potential for further enforcement action.
The operation was part of Operation CeCe, a National Trading Standards initiative in collaboration with HMRC, aimed at curbing the illegal tobacco trade nationwide.
Lord Michael Bichard, Chair of National Trading Standards, highlighted the significant impact of this initiative, stressing, “The trade in illegal tobacco harms local communities and affects honest businesses operating within the law.”
Cllr Phillippa Martin-Moran-Bryant (Conservative/Great Barford), is the Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, Regulatory Services and Housing at Bedford Borough Council, she praised the collaborative work across the agencies.
“This significant seizure is a stark reminder of the harmful impact the illegal tobacco trade has on our community. Not only does it undermine legitimate businesses, but it also funds criminal activity and poses health risks to residents,” she said.
“I applaud the collaborative efforts of our Trading Standards team, HMRC, and Bedfordshire Police in tackling this issue and encourage residents to report any suspected illegal tobacco activity. Together, we can make Bedford a safer and healthier place for everyone.”
The businesses involved in this operation cannot be named until formal action has been successfully taken.
However, Bedford Borough Council urges citizens to assist in the fight against illegal tobacco. If you have any information regarding the sale of illegal tobacco in Bedford Borough, please report it to the Citizens Advice Bureau at 0808 223 1133.
You can also email ehadmin@bedford.gov.uk.
