Highland Council Trading Standards Enforcement Officers have seized illicit cigarettes and hand rolling tobacco products at four shops in Inverness and Easter Ross.
The seizures were carried out following inspections after officers acted on complaints from the public and local businesses.
During the visits, officers seized a range of non-compliant tobacco items, including counterfeit and non-duty paid tobacco products which lacked the correct packaging, appropriate health warnings and tax markings. Investigations are now underway, and enforcement action may follow.
The operation was part of an ongoing joint initiative between HMRC & Trading Standards called “Operation CeCe” which tackles the illegal tobacco trade in the UK.
David MacKenzie, Head of Service for Highland Council Trading Standards, said: “This enforcement action sends a clear message that the sale of illicit tobacco will not be tolerated. These products not only pose serious health risks due to unknown ingredients but costs the public purse millions, due to tax evasion. Illicit tobacco is a serious issue which undermines genuine Highland businesses.”
Retailers with concerns should contact their local Trading Standards.
