Bolton Council's trading standards team has helped remove illegal tobacco and vaping products from sale as part of Operation Machinize,
Working alongside enforcement partners, Bolton Council's trading standards officers carried out intelligence-led activity across the borough, resulting in the seizure of 5391 illegal cigarettes, 9 illicit vapes and 203 bottles of vape liquid as well as some unsafe toys and non-licenced HRT products.
The illegal goods were seized from seven premises across the borough with a combined street value of £10,982.
The premises cannot be named at this stage due to the ongoing investigations.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts to protect consumers, support legitimate local businesses and disrupt criminal activity linked to the sale of illegal products.
Illegal tobacco and vaping products are often sold without the required safety information, may fail to meet UK regulations and can undermine responsible retailers who comply with the law.
Councillor Robert Morrisey, Bolton Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services, said:
"These successful seizures demonstrate our commitment to protecting residents and supporting legitimate businesses.
"The sale of illegal tobacco and vaping products can put people at risk and contributes to wider criminal activity. We will continue to work with our partners to identify offenders and take robust action against those who break the law.
"The information we receive from residents and businesses is invaluable in helping us identify problem premises and take enforcement action where necessary."
Residents who suspect illegal tobacco, vaping products or other goods are being sold can report concerns via email trading.standards@bolton.gov.uk or call Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.