Two shops closed following £40,000 tobacco seizure

Two shops closed following £40,000 tobacco seizure

Two shops in Romford town centre have been ordered to close for more than two months after Havering Police and Trading Standards seized over £40,000 worth of illicit tobacco during a joint operation.

In a targeted crackdown on venues handling stolen goods, officers executed warrants at four vape and mobile phone shops across Romford on October 20. 

More than £20,000 worth of illicit tobacco was recovered from both Red Power Shop and Master Vapes, resulting in closure notices being issued.

On November 4, Romford Magistrates' Court granted closure orders for both premises, requiring them to remain closed until December 26 and January 4, 2027, respectively.

During the operation, officers also recovered nine stolen mobile phones and counterfeit Apple products from a local phone shop. A man was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods, and enquiries remain ongoing.

Havering Safer Neighbourhood Inspector Charlie Routley said: "This operation demonstrates our determination to tackle organised criminality and protect legitimate businesses. Working alongside Trading Standards, we will continue to target those involved in the sale of illicit goods and disrupt criminal activity operating on our high streets.

“Since July 2026, we have secured four closure orders linked to illicit tobacco sales in Havering, showing our ongoing commitment to keeping local communities safe."

Anyone with information about illicit tobacco, counterfeit goods or stolen property is encouraged to contact police or report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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