Multi‑Agency Enforcement Success Across Sittingbourne and Sheerness Ahead of Business Week

On Friday 13th March, officers from Swale Community Safety Unit, supported by North Division Licensing and Trading Standards, carried out a coordinated multi‑agency operation targeting non‑compliant premises in both towns. The activity was timed ahead of the weekend leading into Business Week, ensuring a strong enforcement presence at a key time for local business engagement.

Across nine premises in Sittingbourne and Sheerness, significant quantities of illicit and counterfeit goods were seized. Officers recovered £5,000 cash under the Proceeds of Crime Act, along with an estimated £5,000–£10,000 worth of illegal items, many hidden in concealed storage areas. Key seizures included:

Further concerns were identified at four premises, including non‑compliant CCTV, licensing breaches and extensive out‑of‑date stock—some dating back to 2021. At one particular store in Sittingbourne, CCTV review showed multiple school‑aged children purchasing vapes over two mornings, prompting forthcoming licensing action with Trading Standards.

This work highlights the scale of illegal goods circulating in Sittingbourne and Sheerness and reinforces the importance of firm, coordinated action. Further evidence capture will continue to maintain pressure on non‑compliant retailers and protect residents and legitimate businesses.

Dangers of Fake Alcohol

Fake or counterfeit alcohol poses serious and sometimes life‑threatening risks, because it is often produced with no safety controls. Common dangers include:

1. Toxic ingredients

Counterfeit alcohol frequently contains:

These substances are used because they are cheap and mimic the effects of ethanol, but they are extremely dangerous.

2. Severe health consequences

Exposure can cause:

3. No quality control or hygiene

Fake alcohol is often produced in unsanitary environments, using contaminated containers, recycled bottles and falsified labels. There is no oversight, testing or safety regulation.

Dangers of Counterfeit Tobacco

Illegal or counterfeit tobacco products also pose significant risks:

1. Higher levels of harmful chemicals

Fake cigarettes often contain:

There is no quality control, so harmful contents are much higher than legal tobacco.

2. Increased fire risk

Counterfeit cigarettes typically do not self‑extinguish, making them far more likely to start accidental house fires.

3. No age checks / easier access for children

Illegal sellers frequently supply:

4. Links to organised crime

Illegal tobacco and alcohol sales often fund: