Trading Standards officers have seized illegal tobacco products from four shops in Inverness and Easter Ross following tip-offs from the public and local businesses.
The raids were part of “Operation CeCe”, a joint UK-wide initiative between HMRC and Trading Standards targeting the illicit tobacco trade.
Officers discovered a range of non-compliant tobacco items, including counterfeit cigarettes and hand-rolling tobacco that lacked required health warnings, tax markings, and correct packaging.
The seized goods are believed to be either counterfeit or non-duty paid.
Investigations into the retailers are now underway, and further enforcement action may follow.
David MacKenzie, Head of Service at Highland Council Trading Standards, said the operation sends a strong warning.
“This enforcement action sends a clear message that the sale of illicit tobacco will not be tolerated,” he said.
“These products not only pose serious health risks due to unknown ingredients, but they also cost the public purse millions through tax evasion.”
He added that illicit tobacco harms the local economy by undercutting legitimate Highland businesses.
The operation comes amid growing national concern about the spread of illegal tobacco and its links to organised crime.
In recent years, councils and HMRC have ramped up inspections and public awareness campaigns to reduce supply.
Members of the public are being urged to continue reporting suspicious tobacco sales anonymously via the Highland Council website.
Advice and consumer support is also available through Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000.
Highland Council has said it will continue targeted inspections in response to intelligence from the public and businesses.
Illegal tobacco remains a serious issue across both urban and rural areas in Scotland, with authorities stressing that local information is vital in tackling the trade.
