A rogue retailer in the Highlands was found with a stash of illicit tobacco products after Highland Council Trading Standards took action following complaints from local businesses and members of the public.
Aided by sniffer dogs Boo and Rosie, Trading Standards officers tracked down and seized a substantial store of counterfeit cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco.
Trading Standards Manager, David MacKenzie said: “This seizure highlights the persistent efforts of our Trading Standards team to combat the illegal tobacco trade. These products not only evade taxes but also pose serious health risks to Highland residents. We will continue to take robust action against those involved in such criminal activities.
“The sale of illicit tobacco undermines public health and safety, as these products often fail to meet regulatory standards. Additionally, the illegal trade deprives the government of essential tax revenue, impacting public services and the wider community and reputable local businesses are adversely affected by the unfair competition.”
Trading Standards works with HMRC under Operation CeCe to report illicit tobacco. Where a tobacco product is found not to comply with the law, this allows Trading Standards to refer this evidence to HMRC to consider applying a civil penalty called a sanction. For a first offence the maximum sanction is £10,000.
Highland businesses can contact Trading Standards with queries regarding counterfeit goods.
