This is the latest success in an ongoing clampdown on potentially dangerous products for sale in Hampshire.
The covert operation – which took place on Wednesday 27 May - led to the discovery and seizure of over 500 illicit vapes, cigarettes and hand rolled tobacco products across the two premises, including products concealed on the premises in an armchair and an oven. The total high street value of the seized items, had they been sold illegally, would have been £3,226.
This comes after an operation in New Milton last month where Trading Standards officers, supported by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Police and other partners, seized £8,989 worth of illicit vapes, cigarettes and rolled tobacco products.
Councillor Kirsty North, Hampshire County Council’s Cabinet Lead for Universal Services, said: “This is another impressive result in our wider crackdown on rogue traders who put profits before public safety.
“We are committed to working with Hampshire Police and our local communities to identify shops that trade illegally. Dodgy traders undermine legitimate businesses and risk people’s health, and this focus is paying off.”
Information about the sale of counterfeit vapes or tobacco – or any sales to underage people – can be reported in confidence to the Stop Illegal Tobacco hotline on 0300 999 6 999 or via the website: https://www.stop-illegal-tobacco.co.uk/