More than 113,000 illegal cigarettes have been seized from a suspected tobacco distribution hub in Dagenham, where investigators also discovered evidence that up to 10 people were living above a commercial premises.
Barking and Dagenham Council described the raid as one of its largest ever illegal tobacco seizures.
Trading standards officers, supported by police and a specialist sniffer dog, carried out the operation at a premises in Heathway on Thursday, 16 July.
The council has not disclosed the exact address because investigations are ongoing.
During the search, officers found more than 113,000 cigarette sticks hidden beneath makeshift beds, inside suitcases, supermarket carrier bags and storage boxes in rooms above the business. Investigators also found evidence suggesting part of the building may have been unlawfully used as a house in multiple occupation (HMO).
A council spokesperson said there were potentially up to 10 people living at the premises.
The authority believes the address may have been operating as a storage and distribution hub supplying illegal tobacco to shops across the borough.
A spokesperson said investigators also recovered evidence linking the premises to several other businesses in Barking and Dagenham, suggesting the existence of a wider illicit tobacco supply network.
Investigations are continuing to identify those involved.
The council warned that illegal tobacco damages communities by undercutting legitimate retailers, making cheap tobacco more widely available, reducing tax revenue and helping to fund organised crime.
Labour Cllr Syed Ghani, the council’s cabinet member responsible for enforcement, said: “This significant seizure demonstrates our determination to tackle the criminal networks that profit from the sale of illegal tobacco. More than 113,000 illicit cigarettes found in suspected tobacco hub”We will continue to work closely with our partners to disrupt illegal activity, protect legitimate businesses and keep our communities safe.”
