Oldham premises caught with 50k of illegal tobacco

Officers from Oldham Council's Trading Standards department along with colleagues from HM Revenue and Customs and Greater Manchester Police staged a two-day joint operation in Oldham, visiting nine premises across the borough.

The operation was supported by two sniffer dogs, Skye and Louie.

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While traders who sell illegal products often go to great lengths to conceal contraband, the trained pooches from Wagtails UK Ltd, helped to sniff out the illegal goods.

The operation saw more than 78,000 illicit cigarettes and 11kg of tobacco seized (Image: Oldham Council)

In total more than 78,000 illicit cigarettes, 11kg of hand-rolling tobacco and 2,578 non-compliant disposable vapes were taken off the streets.

Councillor Chris Goodwin, Cabinet Member responsible for Public Protection, said: "Together with our partners, we continue to take action against traders who sell goods that are unlawful and potentially unsafe.

“Smoking, the harm it does and the trade in illegal tobacco has sadly been around for years.

More than 2,000 vapes were also taken off the streets (Image: Oldham Council)

"But over the last few years, we’ve seen more and more illegal vapes on our streets.

“Not only do they contain illegal amounts of nicotine but they are also being targeted at young people, and that’s not on.

“It’s also against the law to sell a vape to anyone under 18.

As many as nine premises were visited in the sting (Image: Oldham Council)

“We’ll continue to carry on raids and seizures across the borough and if you can help us, please get in touch.”

Any shops selling illegal tobacco and vapes can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via www.keep-it-out.co.uk.

Got a story? Email me Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk