A joint operation between Barking and Dagenham Council and the Police has resulted in a shop being shut down for three months after officers uncovered thousands of illicit cigarettes hidden behind a fridge.

As part of Operation Zoridon, officers attended Las Fierbinte, located at 67 East Street, Barking, on Thursday, 16 October, acting on intelligence from Trading Standards and a local resident. Concerns had been raised about the sale of illicit cigarettes to underage individuals and possible illegal working at the premises.

Upon arrival, officers found three males inside the shop who denied working there. A search of the premises revealed over 9,000 illicit cigarettes, with an estimated street value of £4,500, concealed behind a refrigerator. The cigarettes were seized, and Trading Standards will now pursue prosecution against the shop owner.

Following the discovery, the Police sought authorisation to issue a 48-hour closure notice, which was immediately enacted. The following day, officers attended Barkingside Magistrates’ Court, where the closure was extended to a full three-month order, valid until 16 January 2026.

Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety said: “This operation demonstrates why joint working between council services and the police is so important.”

“Illicit tobacco poses serious health risks and undermines legitimate businesses. We will continue to work closely with our partners to protect residents.

Superintendent Biju Premnath for Barking & Dagenham Neighbourhood Police Teams said: “Working with Trading Standards and the Local Authority, we are acting on intelligence and taking firm action to target criminal activity in Barking Town Centre. This operation is part of our ongoing commitment to disrupt organised crime and keep our community safe. 

“I would encourage anyone with information about crime in your area to report to police.  You can get to know your local police team by signing up to Met Engage.  To report anonymously, you can do so by calling Crimestoppers 0800 555 111”

Residents are encouraged to report any concerns about illegal trading or suspicious activity to Trading Standards by emailing tradingstandards@lbbd.gov.uk.