ILLEGAL tobacco and cigarettes have been seized during an operation to stop traders selling counterfeit or contraband products.

Operation Nottingham targeted premises in Chester, Ellesmere Port and Northwich in response to the suspected sale of illegal cigarettes and tobacco.

A total of 13,120 cigarettes and 4.3kg of tobacco were seized by Trading Standards officers.

All goods were believed to be non-compliant with the Tobacco and Related Products Regulations 2016 The Standardised Packaging of Tobacco products Regulations 2015 and/or Trademarks Act 1994.

Illegal cigarettes, tobacco and e-cigarettes have been seized from Chester, Ellesmere Port and Northwich as part of the crackdown.

Illegal cigarettes, tobacco and e-cigarettes have been seized from Chester, Ellesmere Port and Northwich as part of the crackdown.

Councillor Karen Shore, Cabinet Member for Environment, Highways and Strategic Transport said: “People may be tempted by the cheap price tag, but it's worth considering the great cost to your health, safety and community. Illegal tobacco supports other criminal activity and has many damaging effects on our local communities, as well as causing poor health.”

Non-compliant electronic cigarettes were also found in the course of the operation, resulting in the seizure of 691 devices. Electronic cigarettes must comply with certain requirements including liquid capacity limits, nicotine content and other labelling requirements.

The popularity of disposable electronic cigarettes has seen an increase in non-compliant goods finding their way into the market. All businesses should be aware that it is their responsibility to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and non-compliance may result in the seizure and destruction of stock and in some cases prosecution.

Anyone seeking advice regarding the sale of electronic cigarettes can email Regulatoryservices@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.