Highland Council Trading Standards has seized a significant quantity of illicit tobacco products following complaints from businesses and the public.
This operation reinforces the Council’s commitment to protecting consumers and supporting legitimate businesses.
During a targeted inspection, Trading Standards officers uncovered a large stash of illegal tobacco, including counterfeit cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco.
Boo, the tobacco sniffer dog, assisted officers in locating the concealed goods.
Trading Standards Manager David MacKenzie stated that this seizure highlights the team’s persistent efforts to combat the illegal tobacco trade.
He warned that these products not only evade taxes but also pose serious health risks to Highland residents.
The sale of illicit tobacco is a criminal offence under the Trade Marks Act and can result in a fine of up to £5,000.
Mr MacKenzie emphasised that the illegal trade deprives the government of essential tax revenue, impacting public services and harming reputable local businesses.
Trading Standards works with HMRC under Operation CeCe to identify illicit tobacco that lacks the required unique identifiers under the Tobacco Products (Traceability and Security Features) Regulations 2019.
Where products are found to be non-compliant, Trading Standards can refer the evidence to HMRC, which may apply a civil penalty of up to £10,000 for a first offence.
Highland Council Trading Standards urges residents to report any suspicious tobacco sales.
Reports can be made anonymously via the Trading Standards webpage.
Consumers can also contact Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 or at www.consumeradvice.scot for further support.
Highland businesses with specific concerns can reach Trading Standards at trading.standards@highland.gov.uk.
