West Midlands Police have arrested suspected drug dealers and seized thousands of pounds worth of counterfeit tobacco and illegal vapes from high street stores in a series of raids across the region. The action is part of a crackdown on shops funding organised crime and fuelling anti-social behaviour and violence.
Arrests in Birmingham
Three men were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply nitrous oxide at a shop on Ladypool Road in Birmingham. Police found the drug behind the counter, along with keys to a van parked nearby that also contained evidence of nitrous oxide use.
Incidents in Wolverhampton and Sandwell
In Wolverhampton city centre, a police raid uncovered a 17-year-old boy alone behind the counter of a shop. Thousands of suspected counterfeit cigarettes were found hidden in boxes meant for barbecue sets, alongside suspected cannabis- or CBD-laced sweets. In Sandwell, six people were arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class A drugs after warrants were executed at two shops and a flat on Cradley High Street, with further action taken in Oldbury.
Seizures in Stourbridge and Coventry
In Stourbridge, several black bin bags full of suspected illegal vapes were seized. In Coventry, police seized more than 140 bags of cannabis and arrested three men during searches across the city on Thursday.
Police and Council Statements
ACC Andy Parsons, overseeing the operation, said: “People should be under no illusion – this is not low-level, victimless crime. We know that shops that sell illegal cigarettes, vapes and other counterfeit goods are often linked to serious organised crime including exploitation of vulnerable people, as well as violence and anti-social behaviour. We will continue to work with partners such as Trading Standards to bring those involved in this criminality to justice, and to shut down the shops involved in this illegal trade.”
Sajeela Naseer, Director of Regulation and Enforcement at Birmingham City Council, added: “Tackling illegal activity linked to some high street mini-mart style shops is a key priority for the council and our partners. These businesses can cause significant harm to local communities, from the sale of unsafe and illicit goods to links with wider organised crime, which undermines legitimate traders and puts residents at risk. Through Operation Stance, we are working closely with West Midlands Police and other agencies to take robust enforcement action, remove illegal products from our streets and hold those responsible to account. This joint approach is already delivering results, and we will continue to use every power available to protect our communities and support safe, thriving local high streets.”
