Illegal cigarettes and vapes seized by police

Thousands of pounds of illegal cigarettes, tobacco and vapes have been seized by police.

Officers from Poole's neighbourhood policing team conducted a joint operation with Trading Standards following reports of the sale of the illegal products in the coastal town.

A large quantity of illegal cigarettes and tobacco were located in a vehicle off Ashley Road, with a street value of more than £30,000.

Trading Standards also discovered illegal vapes and cash at the Romanian & Polish Shop on Ashley Road.

The policing team and Trading Standards said they were "committed to disrupting the sale of illegal cigarettes and tobacco", and that organised crime groups were "known to use the money from these sales to fund other criminal activities".

A police spokesperson added: "We would like to thank the community who continue to provide us with information around suspicious activity and illegally-sold goods.

"The information you provide us can be the missing link we need to take proactive action against suspected criminals."

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