31,000 plus illegal cigarettes and hundreds of illegal vapes found hidden in Peterborough shop

A cross-agency teamed carried out a day-time raid on the premises in the city after receiving reports of illicit alcohol being sold in the store.

Officials have refused to release details of the store’s name and location while possible legal action is taken.

The search of the premises was carried out by staff of Peterborough City Council’s trading standards and licensing teams jointly with Cambridgeshire police.

Afterwards, a council spokesperson said: “Officers seized 31,020 cigarettes, 418 non-compliant vapes and 3.05kg of hand rolling tobacco hidden within the premises.

“No illegal alcohol was found.

"Investigations remain ongoing.”

The spokesperson added: “Our teams are currently considering potential legal action in relation to the address concerned and for that reason further information cannot be disclosed at this time.

“Where issues of this nature arise, they are addressed robustly by our Regulatory Services teams, within the full extent of the relevant legislative framework.

"This case involves officers from both the Licensing Team and Trading Standards.”

Now council officers are reminding residents that they can report suspected illegal cigarettes or vapes online, anonymously if they wish at https://keep-it-out.co.uk/

The website also contains extensive information on how to spot illegal tobacco and nicotine products.

Alternatively, anyone who would prefer to speak to someone, contact Trading Standard’s advice partner, the Citizens Advice Consumer Service, on 0808 223 1133 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, remaining anonymous if you wish.