Trading Standards seize illicit goods in Rochdale

Illegal alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco

A large quantity of illegal alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco was discovered following two raids in Rochdale last week.

Rochdale Borough Public Protection Officers, in partnership with the Trading Standards North West (TSNW) Illicit Tobacco Team, carried out co-ordinated visits to two Rochdale shops on May 16 after receiving information about illicit tobacco being sold.

Following the raid, tobacco was discovered not bearing the appropriate health warnings, as required by the Consumer Protection Act 1987. In total, 1160 cigarettes and 900g of hand rolling tobacco were seized. During the raids, a total of 24 litres of illegal vodka and whisky with counterfeit labels was also seized.

Councillor Jacqui Beswick, cabinet member for place and regulation, said: “Those involved in the sale of illegal alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco may be encouraging people, including children, to drink and smoke by providing a cheap source.

“Rochdale Borough Council is determined to identify and bring to justice those who are involved in this trade, and offenders need to know that they will face consequences if they choose to deal in these illegal products.”

Anyone with information regarding the sale of illegal goods can contact the Consumer Advice Consumer Service on 08454 04 05 06, or can pass information confidentially to Crime Stoppers on 080 555 111.

For illegal cigarettes and tobacco, the TSNW Illicit Tobacco Team can be contacted directly on 01925 442 466.