Police seize illegal cigarettes, tobacco and a vehicle used in crime

Credit: Derbyshire Police

Police Officers from the Ilkeston Safer Neighbourhood Team seized over £4,000 worth of illegal cigarettes and tobacco and a vehicle that was used in crime.

Action was taken after suspicious behaviour was noted in the area of Club Row car park and Bath Street.

PC Stephenson said: “It is important to raise awareness of the real dangers of illegal tobacco. It causes four times as many deaths as illegal drugs.

“Illegal tobacco is dangerous because it is completely unregulated, often containing higher levels of toxic chemicals—such as arsenic, cadmium, and lead—along with contaminants like rat droppings and asbestos.

“It poses increased health risks, does not meet fire safety standards, funds organized crime, and is sold cheaply, making it accessible to children.

“This type of criminality costs the tax payer around £2 billion per year. Therefore, we will act swiftly and robustly on intelligence received, seize these items and keep our community safe.”

If you have concerns or information regarding similar activity in your area please contact Derbyshire Police officers using any of the following contact methods:

• Call the non-emergency number 101.
• Website – There are crime reporting tools at www.derbyshire.police.uk/
• Facebook – send a private message to the Derbyshire Constabulary Facebook page
• X (Twitter) – direct message the contact centre via @DerPolContact