Ealing Council and its trading standards team along with the Metropolitan Police have taken part in ‘Operation Cece’ which aims to remove illegal and fake products from being made available to the public.
Last week (18 July 2023), 13 premises across the borough were targeted which saw tobacco, men’s medicine and vape products being confiscated during the raids.
Among the haul of items taken were 2920 tablets and 37 oral jelly packs of unregulared pharmaceuticals, 692 oversized vaps, 534 pouches and 266 packs of chewing tobacco, 700 grams of illegal rolling tobacco and 19,100 illicit cigarettes.
As well as a tax loss, the unregulated tobacco products may not be meeting UK quality controls.
As well as the medication and smoking products, Ealing Council also revealed that 18 nitrous oxide canisters were seized which are often used recreationally while 135 packages of poppy seeds were also discovered and may be intended for illicit use.
In addition to the tobacco and vaping-related items, the raid uncovered other illicit goods. Eighteen nitrous oxide canisters were seized, often used recreationally, posing public health and safety risks. Furthermore, 135 packages of poppy seeds were discovered, which may have been intended for illicit uses.
Councillor Louise Brett, Ealing Council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes said: “The success of Operation Cece can be attributed to the collaboration of the Trading Standards team, the Metropolitan Police, sniffer dogs Piper and Wilson, and licensing colleagues. Getting these products off the streets is crucial for residents and consumers and is one of the council’s top priorities. Reporting suspicious or unscrupulous behaviour to the authorities can play a vital role in combating illicit trade and ensuring a safer environment.”
Councillor Brett added: “The operation serves as a strong deterrent to those involved in the illicit trade of goods, sending a clear message that their actions will not be tolerated. It also highlights the commitment of local authorities to safeguard public health and safety and protect consumers from harmful and unregulated products.”
Ealing Council is asking residents to contact trading standards if they have information on anyone selling illegal products by reporting it to: tradingstandards@ealing.gov.uk
