Thousands of illegal vapes and cigarettes seized

Lincolnshire police seized 15,000 illegal vapes and cigarettes from four shops

Thousands of illegal vapes and cigarettes have been seized in a Lincolnshire town.

Police confiscated 15,000 counterfeit vapes and cigarettes and closed four vape shops in Gainsborough following raids on Wednesday.

Five people were arrested and an air rifle, knife and a vehicle were seized. Officers also identified 42 traffic offences.

Insp Mike Head, from Lincolnshire Police, said: “Gainsborough is a great town, with a really strong community, and those who commit crime and cause fear are not welcome here."

'Numerous complaints'

Trading Standards helped seize the counterfeit products at two shops on Trinity Street and two on Church Street, which were subsequently shut down for three months.

"We have received numerous complaints from parents of children who have purchased illegal cigarettes and vapes from these premises," said Trading Standards officer, Andy Wright.

"[They] will be investigated by my officers and criminal proceedings will be taken where appropriate."

Following searches of properties on Linden Terrace, Furley's Wharf and Charles Street, three men, aged 28, 30 and 38 were arrested for drug offences.

Out of 50 vehicles stopped, 42 traffic crimes were reported for offences such as speeding and illegal window tints.

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