Police and Trading Standards officers have seized 974 packs of illegal cigarettes during a raid on a supermarket in Lozells, Birmingham. The operation, conducted on Tuesday, May 26, also resulted in the confiscation of hundreds of blocks and packets of illicit tobacco, along with more than 20 tubs of shisha.
Partnership Operation Targets Illegal Goods
The raid was carried out by the Lozells and East Handsworth Neighbourhood Policing Team in collaboration with Birmingham Trading Standards. Sergeant Greg Lampitt of the neighbourhood team emphasised that selling dodgy goods is not a harmless or low-level crime. He stated: "We're listening to residents and business owners about this type of crime, which is not harmless or low-level. It undermines honest businesses that are operating in accordance with the law and can fuel further crime as well as putting people at risk."
Sergeant Lampitt added: "This operation is another fantastic example of partnership working which we will continue over the summer months."
Details of the Seizure
A force spokesperson confirmed the scale of the operation: "We've seized almost 1,000 packs of illegal cigarettes, as well as various other illicit and illegal items, as part of a joint operation with Birmingham Trading Standards in Lozells. Working with Trading Standards colleagues, the Lozells and East Handsworth Neighbourhood Policing Team carried out the operation at a supermarket on Lozells Road last Tuesday (26 May). In total, they seized 974 packs of illegal cigarettes, alongside hundreds of blocks and packets of illicit tobacco, and more than 20 tubs of shisha."
The spokesperson further noted that such enforcement actions are ongoing across the West Midlands to combat the sale of illicit and illegal goods, which can fuel anti-social behaviour and violence.
Appeal for Public Information
West Midlands Police are urging the public to report any concerns about illegal or illicit goods being sold in their area. Residents can contact the police via Live Chat on the force's website or by calling 101. For those who wish to remain anonymous, information can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
