More than £40,000 worth of illegal tobacco and vaping products have been seized from a shop in Maidstone, as part of a joint operation to tackle organised crime and counterfeit goods.

Approximately 20kg of illicit tobacco and around 40,000 illegal cigarettes, believed to be sold to fund criminal networks, were confiscated during a raid on a business premises on Upper Stone Street at around 3pm on Friday, 28 February.

The total haul, which also included boxes of illegal vape products, had a combined estimated retail value of £45,356, police confirmed.

The operation was carried out by Kent Police, in partnership with Maidstone Borough Council and Kent County Council Trading Standards.

Hidden Compartments and Illegal Weapons Found

During the inspection, officers uncovered two hidden storage compartments, or “hides,” used to conceal the illegal goods. One hide required a strong magnet to open, while the other was accessed through a modified light switch mechanism, demonstrating the lengths criminals go to conceal illicit stock.

In addition to the tobacco and vaping products, officers also recovered an air-powered revolver, which the store was not licensed to sell.

Serious Health Risks and Criminal Ties

Investigating officer PC Tom Cunningham highlighted the public health risks and wider criminal implications of counterfeit tobacco sales.

“Counterfeit tobacco and vape products pose serious health risks to users. Their manufacture is not regulated, meaning they often contain higher levels of harmful chemicals, as well as disturbing ingredients such as animal hair and even human faeces,” he said.

PC Cunningham warned that these products often fund organised crime, adding:

“Those involved in the production and distribution of such goods are often connected with criminal networks engaging in human trafficking, child sexual exploitation, and drug smuggling.”

“By purchasing cheap, illegal tobacco and vape products, members of the public are not only putting their health at risk, but unwittingly supporting abhorrent crimes.”

Call to Action

Kent Police are urging anyone with information about the sale of illegal tobacco or vaping products to come forward. Reports can be made directly to the police or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

For more information or to report concerns, visit www.kent.police.uk or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.