Illegal tobacco crackdown in Hereford sees arrests, seizures and fire safety action

Herefordshire Council Trading Standards, working in partnership with West Mercia Police and Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, has carried out enforcement activity at two premises in Hereford linked to the sale of illegal tobacco.

On Wednesday 10 June 2026, officers attended at 36 Eign Gate and Kubus, 22 Eign Gate, Hereford, following intelligence and ongoing investigations into the supply of illegal tobacco products.

During the operation, officers seized 1,091 packs of cigarettes and 93 pouches of hand-rolling tobacco, with an estimated duty value of £17,000. A quantity of cash totalling £3,083.50 was also seized.

Two men were arrested in connection with the investigation and have been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

The activity forms part of ongoing joint work between Herefordshire Council Trading Standards and West Mercia Police to disrupt the supply of illegal tobacco and protect local communities.

In addition, fire safety officers from Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service attended the premises at 36 Eign Gate, which is understood to be a derelict property previously operating as a retail unit. The officers issued a legal notice stopping the use of the building due to safety concerns.

Herefordshire Council’s Cabinet Member for Roads and Regulatory Services, Councillor Barry Durkin, said:  

“Illegal tobacco sales are not a victimless crime. They undermine legitimate local businesses, take money away from public services as no tax is paid on these illegal products, and are often linked to wider criminal activity.
This action demonstrates the importance of strong partnership working between Trading Standards, the police and fire and rescue services. We will continue to take strong action to protect our communities and support a fair trading environment in Herefordshire.”

Police Sergeant Duncan Reynolds of the Hereford Town Centre Team said:

“The black market for illegal tobacco and vaping products takes revenue away from legitimate retailers and undermines lawful trade.
“These counterfeit and illicit goods are frequently linked to organised criminal groups and even modern-day slavery.
“We will continue working with our partners to visit stores suspected of selling illegal tobacco or vaping products, protect our communities from harm, and take action wherever necessary.”