Authorities seize thousands of illegal cigarettes in raids

Authorities in Wolverhampton have confiscated tens of thousands of counterfeit cigarettes, hundreds of vaping devices, and dangerous fake toys, including imitation Labubus dolls, from multiple retail outlets across the city.

The operation, conducted after public complaints, involved the city council's trading standards officers working alongside local police. A specially trained sniffer dog helped uncover some of the illicit tobacco, which was discovered in four shops and even in a vehicle.

Additional seized items included prescription-only medicines, counterfeit energy drinks, fake perfumes and aftershaves, and other trademark-violating products. In total, officials recovered 38,840 cigarettes, 347 vapes, and 17 kilograms of rolling tobacco.

The council estimated that if the tobacco products had been sold legally, their retail value would reach 45,958, while the avoided tax amounted to 23,415.

The confiscated Labubus dolls, which are popular gifts during the holiday season, were identified as counterfeit. All items were collected as part of the trading standards initiative known as Operation CeCe. Authorities plan to pursue legal action against the premises owners and investigate the supply chain further.

Once investigations conclude, the illegal tobacco products will be disposed of through an environmentally friendly recycling program.

City councillor Bhupinder Gakhal stated, "We are committed to stopping the sale of counterfeit products in Wolverhampton. Especially as the festive season approaches, it is vital to protect our younger residents from unsafe items. This operation is part of our ongoing strategy, and we will continue conducting targeted inspections and test purchases."

Trading standards officers advised that counterfeit tobacco may be identified by unusual taste, low prices, irregular packaging, spelling errors, incorrect logos, or inconsistent health warnings that may not be in English.

Anyone who suspects the sale of illegal products or believes they have purchased counterfeit goods is encouraged to contact trading.standards@wolverhampton.gov.uk.

Author: Logan Reeves