Illegal Tobacco Sales Surge in Scotland

Trading Standards officers in Scotland say they need extra powers to help tackle the 'explosion' of illegal tobacco sales in high street shops.

The products include counterfeit cigarettes or those smuggled into the country to avoid tax.

Trading Standards link the UK-wide problem to organised crime.

The Scottish government said illicit tobacco is a serious issue and that it's working with partners about how best to deal with it.

Illicit tobacco sales have been on the rise in Scotland, with Trading Standards reporting an 'explosion' in the sale of illegal tobacco products.

The BBC's Katie Hunter joined Trading Standards officers on raids in Inverness to investigate the issue.

Trading Standards officers in Inverness joined forces with law enforcement agencies to conduct raids and seize illicit tobacco products.

The results showed a significant increase in the number of counterfeit cigarettes being sold on the black market, with many products bearing fake logos and packaging.

Experts warn that the rise in illicit tobacco sales poses a significant threat to public health, as it allows organised crime groups to profit from the sale of dangerous goods.

The Scottish government has pledged to take action against those involved in the trade, including increased funding for law enforcement agencies and new legislation to crack down on the supply of illicit tobacco products.

Illicit tobacco sales are a major concern for public health experts, who warn that the rise in counterfeit cigarettes poses a significant threat to the country's efforts to reduce smoking rates.

Illicit tobacco sales are a serious issue that requires urgent attention, with experts warning that the rise in counterfeit cigarettes poses a significant threat to public health.

Illicit tobacco