Thousands of counterfeit cigarettes and illegal vapes have been seized by the police across South Yorkshire in a major operation targeting criminal activity linked to high street businesses.

On Wednesday (22 October), officers visited two premises in Doncaster city centre, where they uncovered a hidden compartment within a shop wall.

The ‘hide’ contained hundreds of packets of counterfeit cigarettes.

Two men were arrested at the scene on suspicion of possession with intent to supply a Class B drug and have since been bailed, awaiting further enquiries.

Another visit to a business in Grimethorpe on 15 October uncovered almost 1.500 illegal vapes and more than 1,100 packets of counterfeit cigarettes, all sized by Trading Standards officers.

Detective Inspector Joe Hackworthy, who led the operation, said: “This operation was not only about targeting businesses used as covers for criminality, but showing legitimate businesses that we are taking action against those who are selling counterfeit products.”

South Yorkshire Police is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities about counterfeit goods or illegal trading.

Anyone with information can contact the police on 101 or via the online reporting portal.

Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.