THOUSANDS of suspected fake cigarettes have been seized as part of a crack down on the supply of illegal tobacco.

Police and Trading Standards Officers from Durham County Council seized more than 11,000 cigarettes and nearly nine kilograms of hand rolling tobacco from properties in Chilton and Newton Aycliffe on Friday, October 22.

The seized items were all believed to be either counterfeit, smuggled or made specifically for the illegal market.

This seizure is the latest in a series of operations by Trading Standards officers and police in a bid to cut the supply of illicit tobacco in the county.

Owen Cleugh, the council's consumer protection manager, said: “The regularity with which we are carrying out these operations in County Durham sends a clear warning to those who flout the law.

“We would like to thank the public for providing us with a wealth of intelligence concerning the supply of illegal tobacco.

“This kind of activity undermines the work of the stop smoking services and could encourage young people to pick up the habit.”

Two women and a man have been arrested following the raid and have been released on bail pending further enquiries.

Temporary Inspector Dave Barker, of Durham Police, said: “This operation was planned on the back of information from the community and involved a number of different police teams including our Alcohol Harm Reduction Unit.

“We will continue to respond to any new information which comes in, and even if people do not see instant results they can be assured further actions will be planned.”

Anyone found guilty of supplying counterfeit tobacco can face up to ten years in jail, unlimited fines and their assets may be seized.

Information about illegal tobacco in the county can be reported in confidence to Trading Standards on 03000 261016 or tobacco@durham.gov.uk.