More Than 10,000 Illegal Cigarettes Seized in Day of Action across Burmantofts and Richmond Hill

More Than 10,000 Illegal Cigarettes Seized in Day of Action across Burmantofts and Richmond Hill

A partner-agency day of action was carried out across Burmantofts and Richmond Hill on the 1st September 2026, in response to community concerns regarding the illegal and illicit sales of tobacco across the ward.

West Yorkshire Trading Standards and Burmantofts and Richmond Hill Neighbourhood Policing Team, accompanied by the ward councillors, visited several businesses suspected of being involved in the sale of illicit tobacco products and oversized vapes.

As a result of the inspections, 10,400 cigarettes, 4.8kg tobacco and 14 oversized vapes were seized from two premises and the investigations remain ongoing currently.

Police and partner agencies continue to take proactive action against criminal activity while maintaining a visible presence in the community. These days of action ensure police and partners tackle the issues that matter most to local people and support long-term improvements for residents, to create safer and stronger neighbourhoods for all.

Sergeant Bradley lead for Burmantofts and Richmond Hill Neighbourhood Policing Team said:

"We continue to work closely with Trading Standards and partner agencies to target those involved in the sale of illicit tobacco products. These products are often linked to organised criminality, undermine legitimate businesses and can pose significant risks to public health.

"Days of action such as this demonstrate our commitment to tackling criminality, disrupting those who profit from it and responding to concerns raised by our communities. We will continue to work with residents, businesses and partners, to keep communities safe."

Linda Davis, Head of Trading Standards Protecting Communities said:

“I would like to thank all the partners involved and members of the public for reporting illegal sales and encourage everyone to continue doing so to reduce the harm caused by tobacco in our communities.

“Far from being a victimless crime, the illegal trade in tobacco costs government billions each year in lost revenue, makes it easier for children to start smoking, takes advantage of cash-strapped families, and helps fund organised crime.”

To report cheap and illicit tobacco, illegal vapes or underage sales, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline, anonymously, on 0808 223 1133.

Anyone with information about organised crime, or other criminal activity is encouraged to report it via West Yorkshire Police on 101 or online at the West Yorkshire Police website. 

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.