Almost 22,000 illegal cigarettes and 350 illegal vapes have been uncovered during raids across five premises in Bolton.
In a joint operation with Greater Manchester Police, trading standards raided a string of premises on Friday 20 September which included takeaways, off licenses and vape shops.
The raids took place after intelligence from members of the public that the illegal products were being sold.
Bolton Council said the seizures were down to several factors including non-duty paid, foreign labelling and suspected counterfeit.
In one of the premises cigarettes were found in a padlocked fridge and at another, vapes were found hidden under the floor.
False panelling in a rear store area also housed illegal vapes in another premise.
The shop owners are now subject to investigation.
Cllr Sue Haworth Bolton Council’s executive cabinet member for Regulatory Services said: “Once again, the council has proved its commitment to a zero-tolerance approach on illegal cigarettes and vapes. These goods are unregulated, contain harmful substances and can be seriously damaging to health.
“With the support of Greater Manchester Police, trading standards will not stop until they have eradicated these dangerous products off the streets of our borough. We thank the public who speak up against these traders and encourage anyone to come forward and report illegal or suspected illegal sales of cigarettes and vapes.”
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