Enforcement teams have removed substantial quantities of illicit tobacco after warrant-backed searches at three addresses in the Eston area of Middlesbrough, authorities have confirmed.
Multi-agency operation targets illegal tobacco supply
The raids were carried out by Redcar and Cleveland trading standards working alongside Cleveland Police as part of a coordinated effort to disrupt the supply and distribution of illegal tobacco across the borough. The searches followed intelligence-led inquiries into the local trade.
Council officers said the seizures form part of ongoing work with national agencies to tackle criminal networks involved in the illicit tobacco market, which they described as harmful to communities and legitimate businesses.
"The trade in illicit tobacco harms local communities and affects honest businesses operating within the law," said Cabinet Member for Health, Welfare and Housing Support, Cllr Ursula Earl.
National Trading Standards, working in partnership with HM Revenue & Customs through its Operation CeCe initiative, was referenced in statements about the activity. Lord Michael Bichard, chair of National Trading Standards, warned of the wider criminality and community risk associated with the trade.
"The illicit tobacco trade is driven by organised criminal gangs and poses serious risks to local communities, especially young people," Lord Michael Bichard said. "Since its launch in January 2021, Operation CeCe - a National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HMRC - has removed 102 million illegal cigarettes."
What this means locally
Local enforcement bodies said further investigations will follow and that relevant authorities will pursue any necessary action. The council indicated it will continue to work with regional and national partners to tackle the supply chains behind illegal tobacco.
- Three properties in the Eston area were subject to warrants.
- Operation conducted by Redcar and Cleveland trading standards with Cleveland Police.
- Work linked to the national Operation CeCe initiative.
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Local action | Warrants executed at three Eston addresses |
| Agencies involved | Redcar & Cleveland trading standards, Cleveland Police |
| National initiative | Operation CeCe (since Jan 2021) — 102 million illegal cigarettes removed |
Residents with information about the sale or distribution of illicit tobacco in Middlesbrough are encouraged to contact local trading standards or Cleveland Police. The council said it will continue to pursue enforcement and intelligence-gathering to prevent further illegal activity.
