Thousands of illegal vapes and unlicensed drugs seized in Erdington
The goods were estimated to be worth around £1 million
Thousands of illegal vapes and counterfeit and unlicensed drugs have been seized as part of police efforts to improve the quality of life for people in Erdington.
It was one of the biggest seizure of its kind in the city, with an estimated value of £1 million worth of goods seized.
7,545 vapes, 134kg of tobacco and 329,740 cigarettes were recovered. Alongside more than 300 boxes of imported prescription drugs.
The items were found hidden behind a fake wall in the shop, as well as a flat which which was protected by a metal door.
Detective Inspector Tom Lyons said: "This was great working between partners to disrupt the supply of illegal goods in Erdington.
"Counterfeit and illicit tobacco can be dangerous, as can imported prescription drugs which are not cleared for use in the UK.
"We are committed to working with Birmingham City Council’s Trading Standards team, HMRC and other partners to prevent harm to communities in whatever form it takes,2 they said.
Councillor Sam Forsyth, Chair of Licensing and Public Protection Committee said, "This latest seizure demonstrates the continued efforts by all partners to remove dangerous and illicit goods, so they no longer pose a threat within our communities.
"This positive outcome is another step in the right direction towards targeting organised crime groups and we will continue working in partnership with West Midlands Police to protect the public," they said.
West Midlands Police said they are investigating and have spoken to a number of people already.