Dog helps sniffs out 300,000 illegal cigarettes

A specially trained dog has helped to sniff out 300,000 illegal cigarettes, hand-rolled tobacco and 303 disposable vapes.

Leo, from Specialist K9's Limited, worked with Central Bedfordshire Council's trading standards team, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and Bedfordshire Police, at a raid at Vrancea on High Street North in Dunstable.

It led to the team also searching a nearby flat, where Leo discovered a "significant quantity of illicit goods".

In total £200,000 worth of illegal items was seized, the council said.

During the joint inspection, police discovered a man at the rear, carrying two large bags filled with illegal cigarettes, in the shop.

He had a set of keys and it led officers to a nearby flat being used to store a significant quantity of illicit goods.

Leo then helped discover 298,240 illegal cigarettes, 11.3kg (25Ib) of hand-rolling tobacco and 303 disposable vapes.

John Baker, Independent executive councillor for finance and highways, said it was a great example of partnership.

"The sale of illegal tobacco and vapes not only puts public health at risk but also undermines legitimate businesses," he said.

"We will continue to take firm action against those who break the law."

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