Illegal vapes and tobacco have been seized from stores after Trading Standards raided stores across Hertfordshire.

A Trading Standards-led multi-agency operation - codenamed Operation CeCe - took place this week, which included a specialist detection dog.

Businesses in Stevenage, Royston, Hatfield, Watford and Bushey were visited, with tobacco and illegal vapes found and seized, some from complex concealments.

A detection dog was used during the raids.A detection dog was used during the raids. (Image: Hertfordshire County Council)

Allison Wren, deputy executive member for public health and community safety said: "This operation shows we will take necessary steps to target businesses that are selling these products.

"It’s important that we protect our residents from the risks posed by illegal vapes and illicit tobacco products, disrupt their distribution and bring those selling them to account.

"If any businesses are unclear about the regulations and their responsibilities, our Trading Standards team can provide advice and support to help them operate in a safe and legal way."

Raids were carried out as part of Operation CeCe.Raids were carried out as part of Operation CeCe. (Image: Hertfordshire County Council)

Lord Michael Bichard, chair of National Trading Standards, added: "The illicit tobacco trade is driven by organised criminal gangs and poses serious risks to local communities, especially young people.

"Since its launch in January 2021, Operation CeCe – a National Trading Standards initiative in partnership with HMRC – has removed 69 million illegal cigarettes, 19,750kg of hand-rolling tobacco and almost 175kg of shisha products from sale, helping to clamp down on this illicit trade and protect communities and honest businesses across the UK."