Sniffer dog Billy finds thousands of illegal cigarettes in Felixstowe
Suffolk Trading Standards have seized thousands of illegal cigarettes
Last updated 11th Feb 2022
Thousands of illegal cigarettes have been seized in Felixstowe after they were sniffed out by a dog working for trading standards.
Billy located the tobacco stashed away at a shop in the town on Wednesday.
Suffolk Trading Standards seized over 8,000 cigarettes and 7,500g worth of rolling tobacco as part of a joint operation with Suffolk Police.
Officers believe the items were illegally imported, meaning the packaging isn't legal and no tax was paid.
Councillor Andrew Reid, of Suffolk County Council, said:
“I am delighted that this latest operation has proved such a success and would like to thank officers and partners for their ongoing efforts to rid Suffolk of illegal tobacco trading.
“This is far from being a victimless offence as the sale of illegal tobacco has been linked to organised crime, with this often being the gateway into county lines and the drug supply chain.
“Everyone can play their part in stopping this by reporting illegal tobacco to keep it off the streets and put pressure on those who continue to sell it.”