Shops shut after illicit cigarettes and vapes found

Officials found illicit tobacco and vapes hidden behind false panels and shelving units

Four shops in Grantham have been closed down after police and Lincolnshire Trading Standards officers found illegal cigarettes and vapes in hidden compartments.

Europe Foods and Biedronka, both in Wharf Road, and Jaz Mini Market and Local Stores, in Westgate, will remain closed for three months.

Anyone entering the property, with the exception of a landlord or emergency services, will face prosecution, officials said.

Police said products were hidden behind false panels and shelving units using "sophisticated magnetic components".

The shops will be closed for three months

Sgt Lee Mayfield said: "We found counterfeit cigarettes and some of the disposable vapes seized were offering 9,000 to 15,000 puffs per vape. As a rule, disposable vapes should have around 600 puffs in them.

"Each case is different, but the concerns we have are around human trafficking, money laundering and tax offences and significant health and safety implications."

Signs have been placed on the outside of the buildings to offer an explanation to the public about the closures.

Andy Wright, principal Lincolnshire Trading Standards officer, said: "There’s a definite link between the sale of illegal cigarettes and other crime and anti-social behaviour.

"We’re working hard to disrupt the illegal tobacco market in the county".

Follow BBC Lincolnshire on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail]