A multi-agency operation arranged and led by Neath Port Talbot Council’s Trading Standards Team has led to the seizure of hundreds of cigarettes, tobacco, illegal vapes, toys and two vehicles.
Officers from the council’s Trading Standards and Waste Enforcement Teams working with South Wales Police carried out a series of raids following the receipt of intelligence received about the sale of illegal vapes and illicit tobacco and the disposal of associated business waste.
Illicit tobacco was found hidden in concealments in business premises and in vehicles parked nearby, detected by thorough searching and the use of sniffer dogs.
Illegal disposable vapes were found to be on open sale in these premises and fake and potentially unsafe Labubu dolls were found in one premises.
A follow up visit to another premises revealed that more illegal vapes and fake Labubu dolls were on sale. Counterfeit toys often flout safety legislation which could pose serious dangers for children.
These are in addition to other activities carried out by Trading Standards officers over the past few months including closure orders and formal action, one of which is leading to a sentencing of one business for the sale of illegal tobacco and illegal vapes at Swansea Crown Court in October.
During the joint operation, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Waste Enforcement officers also located a person who had previously failed to pay a Fixed Penalty Notice in relation to waste offences and had moved from his previous address. The person has now paid the outstanding Fixed Penalty Notice.
Councillor Cen Phillips, Neath Port Talbot Council’s Cabinet Member for Nature, Tourism and Wellbeing, said: “This operation demonstrates the benefits of inter-agency information sharing and cooperation.
“These businesses are wilfully undermining efforts to protect the health and safety of the public at large by selling dangerous and illegal products. By hiding their wares they are fully aware of the illegality of their actions.”
