West Midlands police crack down on crime linked to illicit sales
Action taken against counterfeit goods and drug supply operations
Authorities across the West Midlands are taking firm action against high street stores involved in organised crime through the sale of illicit goods.
Collaborating with Trading Standards, HMRC, and Immigration, police have arrested suspected drug dealers and seized thousands of pounds worth of counterfeit tobacco and illegal vapes.
Recent actions include arrests on Birmingham's Ladypool Road for possession with intent to supply nitrous oxide, with illicit items found behind the shop counter.
In Wolverhampton city centre, a raid discovered a 17-year-old behind the counter where thousands of suspected counterfeit cigarettes were hidden alongside cannabis/CBD-laced sweets.
Sandwell saw six arrests for suspected possession with intent to supply class A drugs following raids at shops and residences on Cradley High Street and nearby areas.
A substantial seizure of illegal vapes was made in Stourbridge, while more than 140 bags of cannabis were confiscated during operations across Coventry.
The initiative is overseen by Assistant Chief Constable Andy Parsons, who emphasised the severity of these crimes and their connection to serious organised crime and anti-social behaviour.
Sajeela Naseer, Director of Regulation and Enforcement at Birmingham City Council, reinforced the council's commitment to tackling illegal activity linked to certain high street stores.
Operation Stance is a collaborative effort to remove illegal products, enforce regulation, and support safe local high streets.
The operation continues to yield results in protecting communities from the risks associated with organised crime.