CRIMESTOPPERS has launched a campaign to appeal for information on local retailers selling illegal tobacco.

It was reported last year that the UK saw an almost 50 per cent rise in the consumption of counterfeit and contraband (C&C) cigarettes in 2014, the second highest increase across the whole of the EU1.

Three key areas: Contraband - Genuine tobacco products that are produced for lawful distribution in their market of intended destination, but illegally diverted into a different market.

Counterfeit – Tobacco products that have been manufactured without the permission of the trademark rights holder.

Illicit Whites – Tobacco products that are generally legally produced in a market to be primarily smuggled into another market where they have limited or no legal distribution.

Roger Critchell, director of operations for Crimestoppers, said: “While some will see illegal tobacco as a victimless crime, I can strongly reject this. The links this trade has to serious organised crime and gangs are very real, and they are operating in your area, which has a detrimental effect on your community and the lives of their victims.” If you have any information on those selling illegal tobacco, please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.