Essex authorities seize 460,000 illegal cigarettes in crime crackdown

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 30 Oct, 22:21 · Archive

Authorities in Essex have seized more than 460,000 illicit cigarettes, 238kg of tobacco and 9,000 illegal vapes in a crackdown on organised crime.

Authorities in Essex have seized more than 460,000 illicit cigarettes, approximately 238kg of hand-rolling tobacco and more than 9,000 illegal vapes in targeted enforcement work across the county. The seizures form part of Operation Machinize, an ongoing National Crime Agency-coordinated project targeting money laundering and the criminal use of cash-intensive high-street businesses. Essex Trading Standards is working alongside Essex Police, Immigration Enforcement and HM Revenue & Customs.

During a recent day of action in Chelmsford, officers visited six retail premises, with illicit goods seized from five. Officers recovered more than 21,800 illicit cigarettes, more than 10kg of hand-rolling tobacco and 29 illegal vapes from those premises.

The tobacco seized during the operation was estimated to have a street value of more than £9,000 and a legitimate retail value of around £24,000.

Authorities say businesses selling illicit tobacco and illegal vaping products can be connected to wider criminal networks. The operation is also seeking to tackle offences including illegal working and labour exploitation.

Councillor Peter Harris, leader of Essex County Council, said: 'Behind the sale of illicit tobacco and illegal vaping products there is often a much bigger picture involving organised crime, money laundering and exploitation.'

How it is being reported

• More than 460,000 illegal cigarettes seized as Essex shops targetedMore than 460,000 illicit cigarettes, around 238kg tobacco and 9,000 illegal vapes seized in Essex as Operation Machinize targets organised crime networks.Colchester Gazette · 30 Oct, 15:35
• More than 460,000 illegal cigarettes seized as Essex shops targetedMore than 460,000 illicit cigarettes, around 238kg tobacco and 9,000 illegal vapes seized in Essex as Operation Machinize targets organised crime networks.Echo (Basildon) · 30 Oct, 15:35
• More than 460,000 illegal cigarettes seized as Essex shops targetedMore than 460,000 illicit cigarettes, around 238kg tobacco and 9,000 illegal vapes seized in Essex as Operation Machinize targets organised crime networks.Brentwood Guardian · 30 Oct, 15:35

In this story: Essex Trading Standards · National Crime Agency · Essex Police · Essex · Chelmsford · Peter Harris · Essex County Council

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