Man arrested after 3,400 'illegal' cigarettes seized by police in towns near York

Police seized around 3,400 illegal cigarettes and three kilogrammes of illegal rolling tobacco, with a street value of approximately £1,635 (Image: Humberside Police)

A MAN has been arrested following the seizure of around 3,400 'illegal cigarettes' in a joint operation.

Market Weighton Neighbourhood Policing Team and East Riding of Yorkshire Council Trading Standards raided two business premises in the Pocklington and Market Weighton area on Tuesday (September 29), following multiple complaints about the sale of illegal goods.

Officers seized the cigarettes and three kilogrammes of illegal rolling tobacco, with a street value of approximately £1,635.

A man was arrested following the seizure (Image: Humberside Police)

A spokesperson for Humberside Police said: "An adult male connected to the products has also been arrested for immigration offences.

"Any counterfeit products, including vapes, can be highly dangerous as they are not subject to the rigorous safety standards imposed on goods sold legally.

"Not only is there a real health risk to individuals who smoke counterfeit products, but the sale of these products can also be used to fund more serious crime, including organised cross-border criminality in our area.

"We would continue to encourage anyone with information or concerns about counterfeit tobacco and vapes within your community, to please contact us via our non-emergency number 101, or by speaking to our officers when you see them out and about.

"You can also report anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."