Thousands of cigarettes and vapes seized in Bolton crackdown

Almost 22,000 illegal cigarettes and 350 illegal vapes were uncovered during raids across five shops in Bolton.

The raid came just days after town hall chiefs revealed that Horwich Mini Market had been ordered to close after it was found to be repeatedly selling illegal cigarettes, vapes, and tobacco.

In a joint operation with Greater Manchester Police, Bolton Council’s trading standards team carried out raids on Friday, September 20, in premises including takeaways, off licenses, and vape shops.

The raids took place after intelligence from members of the public that the illegal products were being sold.

Sign up to our newsletters to get the latest stories sent straight to your inbox.

In one of the premises, cigarettes were found in a padlocked fridge. In another, vapes were found hidden under the floor. 

False panelling in a rear store area also housed illegal vapes in another shop.

The shop owners are now subject to investigation.

(Image: Bolton Council)

Seizures were down to several factors including non-duty paid, foreign labelling, and suspected counterfeit products, Bolton Council said.

Follow The Bolton News on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and TikTok.

Cllr Sue Haworth, Bolton Council’s executive cabinet member for regulatory services, said: “Once again, the council has proved its commitment to a zero-tolerance approach on illegal cigarettes and vapes.  

“These goods are unregulated, contain harmful substances and can be seriously damaging to health.    

“With the support of Greater Manchester Police, trading standards will not stop until they have eradicated these dangerous products off the streets of our borough.     

“We thank the public who speak up against these traders and encourage anyone to come forward and report illegal or suspected illegal sales of cigarettes and vapes.”

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Bolton. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk.