Fake cigarettes haul worth £30k is seized in West Bromwich

One shop was caught selling the illegal and non-duty paid tobacco with an estimated street value of more than £1,000 during an operation which was carried out in Sandwell by Trading Standards, HMRC and the police. The tobacco in the West Bromwich shop included around 2,500 cigarettes and more than half a kilo of hand rolling tobacco.

Analysis of counterfeit tobacco products has shown previously that they may contain highly dangerous ingredients such as cyanide, plastic, sand, insects and rat droppings.

In many cases the fake cigarettes have been found to contain higher levels of tar than genuine ones.

Cabinet member for Neighbourhood Services Councillor Ian Jones said "All cigarettes and tobacco are harmful. However people should be aware that fake tobacco is even more hazardous than the real thing because you can never be sure what you are smoking."

The seizures were made during joint operations between Trading Standards, HMRC and the police during the Sandwell's Safer Six Campaign last month.

Trading Standards manager Bob Charnley said: "Fake cigarettes are often half the price of legal ones. While most people believe they are getting a bargain, many do not realise the effect buying fake tobacco has on them and their community.

"The sale of counterfeit goods is a serious criminal offence which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment.

"My officers will continue to do all they can to prevent illegal sales and stop criminals gaining a competitive advantage at the expense of genuine hard working businesses. We urge anyone to report any sales of counterfeit goods by contacting our fakes hotline on 0845 894 1008. You can report anonymously if you wish."

The Safer Six campaign saw organisations joining forces to tackle crime.