Thousands of illegal cigarettes, 10 kilos of hand-rolling tobacco and over 1,000 illegal disposable vapes have been seized during raids on three convenience stores in Southend.
Southend-on-Sea City Council's Trading Standards team, supported by specialist detection dogs, uncovered the illicit products hidden in cavity walls and ceiling voids.
In total, officers seized more than 30,000 cigarettes, 10 kilos of tobacco and 1,000 non-compliant vapes. The sale of such products is not only dangerous to public health but is known to fund organised crime.
These illicit products, often counterfeit, pose a greater health risk than legitimate products, due to the presence of harmful substances and they also evade UK duties.
Some of the vaping devices advertised a capacity of up to 18,000 puffs. These devices will vastly exceed UK legal limits on nicotine strength and tank size. Alarmingly, these dangerous products have been sold to children.
Formal action will be taken against the businesses involved, which could include fines, closure orders or criminal prosecution.
Cllr Kevin Robinson, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Major Projects, and Regulatory Services, said, "This is a strong reminder that we will take firm regulatory action against those selling illegal tobacco and vapes in Southend.
"These products are not only harmful to health but are often tied to organised criminal activity.
"Our Trading Standards team is using every enforcement tool available to protect residents and ensure businesses operate within the law. I commend their ongoing efforts to keep our city safe and compliant."
