A Trading Standards led multi agency operation took place last week with the aid of a specialist detection dog, as part of Operation CeCe, targeting Illicit tobacco and illegal vapes.

Visits were carried out across Hertfordshire in Watford, Bushey (Hertsmere), Stevenage, Royston and Hatfield. The operations were aimed at targeting and disrupting the supply of illicit tobacco and vapes within the county. 

Tobacco and illegal vapes were found and seized, some from complex concealments. 

Allison Wren, Deputy Executive Member for Public Health and Community Safety said: "This operation shows we will take necessary steps to target businesses that are selling these products. It's important that we protect our residents from the risks posed by illegal vapes and illicit tobacco products, disrupt their distribution and bring those selling them to account.

If any businesses are unclear about the regulations and their responsibilities, our Trading Standards team can provide advice and support to help them operate in a safe and legal way." 

Lord Michael Bichard, Chair, National Trading Standards, said:   "The illicit tobacco trade is driven by organised criminal gangs and poses serious risks to local communities, especially young people. Since its launch in January 2021, Operation CeCe – a National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HMRC – has removed 69 million illegal cigarettes, 19,750kg of hand-rolling tobacco and almost 175kg of shisha products from sale, helping to clamp down on this illicit trade and protect communities and honest businesses across the UK."