West Sussex Trading Standards officers have stumbled on an illicit stash of cigarettes during an inspection in Billingshurst.
West Sussex Trading Standards officers have stumbled on an illicit stash of cigarettes during an inspection in Billingshurst.
The Trading Standards officers spotted suspicious packaging as a group of young people left a vape and tobacco shop on the High Street, which then prompted them to do a search.
Officers discovered illegal cigarettes and tobacco hidden in a sewage drain behind the store.
It’s been a busy few months for Trading Standards - Between April and August this year, more than 132,000 illicit cigarettes have been seized across the county.
Cllr Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “This was a chance encounter, but it highlights how widespread the issue has become. The products found were not only illegal but potentially dangerous. Illicit tobacco often contains unregulated chemicals and poses serious health risks to consumers. We’re urging retailers to think twice before stocking these items and reminding the public to report anything suspicious.
“Protecting our communities is a key priority in Our Council Plan. These illegal products not only pose serious health risks, but they also undermine honest local businesses and fuel organised crime. Our Trading Standards team is working tirelessly to disrupt this harmful trade and safeguard the wellbeing of our residents.”
Meanwhile, West Sussex County Council say the best way to protect your health is to quit smoking. Free support is available to help people stop, including vapes and nicotine replacement products such as patches, gum and lozenges.
Residents can visit the Smokefree West Sussex webpage.
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