Authorities in Lincolnshire closed 68 shops in 2024 for selling illegal vapes and counterfeit tobacco products. The operation, led by Lincolnshire County Council’s Trading Standards team and Lincolnshire Police, resulted in the seizure of over 670,000 illicit cigarettes, 17,000 illegal vapes, and 370kg of tobacco.
Officials reported a 150% increase in confiscated illicit cigarettes compared to 2023. Councillor Daniel McNally stated that enforcement efforts will continue to target businesses selling counterfeit products.
Lincolnshire Police warned that the illegal trade harms legitimate businesses and fuels other criminal activities. The force has launched a campaign to curb the sale of illicit tobacco across the county.
