Over 550 packets containing 11,000 cigarettes and 5.5kg of hand rolled tobacco have been seized from two shops in Grangemouth, Falkirk.
The illicit goods were found after PC Boyle and PC Scott from the Grangemouth Community team attended the stores with Falkirk Council trading standards team, following information from the local community.
PC Boyle said: “We rely on our local communities to let us know when they see local issues, this allows us to step in and deal with it along with partner agencies. I would encourage the reporting of any local issues.”
Meanwhile, a “large quantity” of illicit cigarettes has also been recovered by Shettleston community officers from a local store in the Tollcross area of Glasgow.
Sergeant Neil Reilly said: “The sale of illegal tobacco and cigarettes doesn’t just harm legitimate local businesses — it also helps fund serious and organised crime. These fake cigarettes can contain harmful substances and pose real risks to your health. We’re committed to protecting our communities from this type of criminality.”
If you have any information about individuals or premises involved in selling illicit tobacco products, please contact Police Scotland on 101 or report anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
