A Stroud shop is under investigation after authorities seized £5,000 worth of illegal cigarettes and vapes.
Officials visited the shop in January and made a secret test purchase, buying illegal cigarettes. A later shop search on February 7th found nothing illegal. Officers suspected the items were in nearby cars.
They located a likely vehicle quickly and waited in the area. Soon, a man opened the vehicle and got inside.
A complete search of this vehicle revealed illegal cigarettes, tobacco, and oversized, illegal vapes. Authorities seized these items along with a phone. Police also found cannabis in a separate vehicle nearby and seized those drugs. No one got arrested at that time.
The trading standards investigation continues. A council member spoke about illegal tobacco, highlighting that it hurts legal businesses and risks public health. He said they work hard to stop it and thanked the community for their help.
People can report illegal tobacco or vapes by calling 01452 426060. They can also visit the trading standards website.