Police discovered a lone 17-year-old boy behind the counter of a city centre shop in Wolverhampton during coordinated visits targeting criminal activity. Suspected counterfeit goods and cannabis or CBD products were seized from the premises on School Street.
Three men were found in rooms above the store and are now subject to immigration enquiries. West Midlands Police confirmed the teenager is being safeguarded, while a prohibition order has been served on the flat, banning anyone from living there. The shop itself has also been placed under a prohibition notice as the force seeks a permanent closure order.
Further raids uncover counterfeit goods
In a separate operation at another shop on Rookery Avenue in Lanesfield, officers discovered 20,000 suspected counterfeit cigarettes and tobacco products. Some of the illicit items were concealed inside boxes intended for barbeque sets and found in a car parked outside. A man believed to be the owner of the premises is now under investigation by Wolverhampton Trading Standards for selling non-duty cigarettes.
Several people were also found living in a flat connected to that store, and two individuals were arrested on immigration matters. A prohibition notice has been placed on that flat as well.
Police commitment to tackling illegal activity
Detective Inspector Lee Medlam from Wolverhampton's Priority Team stated: "We want to make sure the shops in our communities are there to serve and benefit their communities. But if we have reason to believe there is illegal activity going on, be it the sale of illegal cigarettes, vapes or other counterfeit goods, we will act."
He added that such activity is often linked to serious organised crime, including exploitation of vulnerable people, violence, and anti-social behaviour. The force is working closely with partners across the city to bring those involved to justice.
Council partnership praised
Councillor Qaiser Azeem, cabinet member for resident services at City of Wolverhampton Council, said: "We are proud of our dedicated work with colleagues from West Midlands Police to tackle the sales of illicit products including cigarettes and vapes. The sale of these items is a problem across the whole of the country and Wolverhampton is no different, but the partnership action we are taking is having a real impact in the city."
He emphasised the determination to identify those responsible and hold them to account, safeguarding legitimate businesses and protecting residents' health.
Anyone suspecting illegal activity at a store should report it to police via the live chat facility at www.west-midlands.police.uk or by calling 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
