'Rat droppings' warning as Coventry shops investigated over illegal tobacco claims
Smokers who puff on illegal cigarettes have been warned of the serious health implications following a citywide investigation by Japan Tobacco International (JTI). A staggering 27 Coventry shops were found to be selling illicit tobacco products that could contain 'human excrement and rat droppings.'
Research conducted last year revealed that more than a quarter of retailers have seen a rise in people openly asking for illicit tobacco and vape products, which are being sold across Coventry. Retailers found selling illicit goods will be reported to HMRC and Trading Standards.
Analysis conducted by JTI revealed that around £5.3bn was spent on illegal tobacco in 2023. Officials have warned that the 'dangerous' products could contain dead flies, rat droppings, mould, dust, and human excrement, according to the Local Government Association (LGA).
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JTI carried out an investigation in Coventry and uncovered a number of shops selling illegal tobacco and vapes, with the illicit trade said to be 'rife' in Foleshill. All of the products purchased will be analysed, and the city-based businesses will be reported to Trading Standards.
Shops across Coventry, including in Foleshill, were found to be selling cut-priced illegal cigarettes and vaping products, JTI uncovered. Counterfeit versions of roll-your-own tobacco, including Amber Leaf, which usually cost around £38 were being sold for as little as £4.
In the UK, the illegal tobacco trade remains an ongoing issue, with seven per cent of cigarettes and 33 per cent of rolling tobacco being smuggled into the UK in 2022/23. Experts from the UK Vaping Industry Association have also estimated that up to 60 per cent of disposable vape products being sold are 'illicit.'
Coventry City Council has closed down a number of shops for the sale of illegal tobacco and cigarettes, including Tile Hill Mini Market, Euro Mini Market and Village Express. All of the city-based businesses were ordered to close in a citywide crackdown on the illicit trade, which is becoming more widespread across the UK.
Ian Howell, Public Affairs Manager at JTI, described the trend as 'extremely worrying.' He said: “It is a booming trade and at a level far higher than HMRC estimates indicate.
“We hope that the evidence we have gathered through these test purchases can assist the hard-working staff in the Business Compliance Team at Coventry City Council to take the necessary enforcement action.”
Mr Howell added: “If anyone knows where illegal tobacco or vapes are on sale in Coventry, they should call Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133 or email: businesscompliance@coventry.gov.uk.”
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