A joint enforcement operation between Barking and Dagenham Council’s Trading Standards and the police has uncovered significant quantities of illicit tobacco and illegal vapes in Dagenham, demonstrating the impact of strong partnership working.
On Tuesday 31 March, Trading Standards officers teamed up with the Police Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) from Beam Ward to carry out an intelligence‑led sweep of businesses along Broad Street, Dagenham.
Of the six premises inspected, three were found to be supplying illegal tobacco or vaping products, leading to multiple seizures and an arrest made by police officers during the operation.
Products seized included:
• 540 illicit cigarette sticks
• 860 suspected counterfeit cigarette sticks
• 7 50g packs of hand‑rolling tobacco
• 227 disposable vapes
• 2 nicotine pouches
These had a combined estimated retail value: £3,725.
Police officers also made one arrest for immigration‑related offences. Their presence was essential, with intelligence indicating that individuals may have been concealing counterfeit tobacco on their person and the police presence allowed them to be searched.
This joint initiative highlights the importance of coordinated enforcement between the council and police, strengthening efforts to disrupt illegal supply chains, safeguard public health, and support legitimate traders operating within the law.
Keith Stanger, Director for Enforcement, Regulatory Services and Community Safety, said: Illegal tobacco and vapes can often fuel organised criminal networks and undermine the safety of our residents.
“By combining our intelligence and resources, we are sending a clear message that we will continue to target those who choose to operate outside the law.”
Matthew Cole, Director of Public Health said: “Stopping illegal tobacco sales directly contributes to improving health and saving lives, as they contain higher amounts of toxins and unknown ingredients, encourage people to smoke more and reduce the likelihood of quitting.
“It is estimated that a packet of 20 cigarettes can reduce your life expectancy by nearly 7 hours, likely more for an illicit cigarette.”
Chief Inspector Mo Mahmood said: “Partnership working is crucial in tackling the criminal activity that sits behind the sale of illicit tobacco. Our officers were able to support Trading Standards with on‑the‑ground enforcement, including making an arrest where offences were identified. We will continue to work closely with the council to keep our communities safe and disrupt those engaged in illegal trade.”
Quitting smoking is not just the single most effective action to improve your health, but saves around £2,338 per year. You are around three times more likely to quit through using Stop Smoking Services, and Barking and Dagenham residents can access free advice and support by contacting healthy.lifestyles@lbbd.gov.uk or 020 8724 8018.
Residents with concerns about a shop selling illicit cigarettes or vapes can report it to Trading Standards at tradingstandards@lbbd.gov.uk.