Illegal cigarettes, vapes and machete recovered in Wellingborough warrants
Partnership enforcement uncovers counterfeit goods and illegal drugs
Joint warrants in Wellingborough have led to the discovery and confiscation of a large quantity of illegal goods, counterfeit items and a weapon.
On 26th November 2025, several business premises on Market Street, Cambridge Street, and Victoria Street were targeted in an operation involving neighbourhood policing officers, His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC), Trading Standards, and North Northamptonshire Council.
Significant seizures
HMRC seized 203,000 non-duty paid and counterfeit cigarettes, alongside 40kg of hand rolling tobacco, with unpaid excise duty estimated at £120,000.
Trading Standards recovered counterfeit clothing, children’s toys, and over 3,500 illegal vapes.
Additional items discovered by police included:
A machete
Nitrous Oxide Systems (a Class C drug)
Cannabis vapes
Non-UK compliant prescription medication
More than £7,000 in cash
Fireworks
North Northamptonshire Council’s Environmental Health Team also issued notices to several businesses concerning improper waste disposal processes.
Community intelligence plays vital role
The operation was supported by reports and concerns from members of the public.
Wellingborough Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Glenn Thompson praised local residents for their role in assisting the investigation by sharing vital information.
“This enforcement action across several business addresses, in conjunction with our partners, was only possible due to the large number of community intelligence from members of the public concerned about the supply of some of these products,” Sergeant Thompson said.
“We hope this operation demonstrates that we won’t tolerate any kind of criminal activity in our towns.
“Action like this wouldn’t be possible without the continued support of the public, and we encourage people to report any information or concerns to us.”
Reporting concerns
Members of the public with information about illegal activity are encouraged to report non-emergency crime via 101, online or anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Concerns about counterfeit goods can also be reported to Trading Standards through the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 or via the online contact form.