Untaxed cigarettes seized from Paddock Wood shop

More than 3000 packets of illicit cigarettes have been seized from a shop in Paddock Wood.

Local officers executed a warrant at a shop in Commercial Road following information that the untaxed tobacco was being sold from inside the premises.

As part of the warrant officers were joined by Kent Trading Standards.

During the operation, which was carried out earlier this month, officers found the tobacco hidden within makeshift hides as well as storage areas within the property.

Following the seizure of the goods officers arrested a 34 year old man from Tunbridge Wells and he has since been released on bail until 1 December 2026 while further enquiries are made.

Detective Inspector Lisa Featherstone said: ‘The sale of illicit cigarettes and tobacco poses a serious health risk to consumers and also hinders law abiding businesses. ‘Kent Police will continue to carry out proactive operations to stamp out the trade in unregulated tobacco and ensure those responsible are held to account for their actions.’