According to a statement released by Greater Manchester Police on October 16, during an operation called “Safer Business Action Week,” Heywood Police along with a wider enforcement team discovered illegal tobacco hidden inside a microwave oven in a shop.
While investigating a man suspected of violating immigration regulations, authorities discovered a consignment of illicit tobacco related to illegal product supply. The tobacco was concealed within a dismantled and reassembled microwave oven, typically used for cooking food.
In addition, the Hewood Police also discovered non-compliant e-cigarettes and illegal cigarettes at a shop on Bridge Street. The offense of breaching commercial standards will be assessed and is currently under further investigation.
Meanwhile, a truck was seized after being searched, and the driver was also arrested on suspicion of violating immigration regulations. During the search process, authorities also discovered that the driver possessed offensive weapons. Immigration authorities will subsequently assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action.
The “Safer Business Week” initiative is aimed at ensuring the safety of staff and customers. This initiative is formed by the Heywood Neighbourhood Team of Greater Manchester Police, Housing Enforcement, Business Standards, and Anti-Fraud teams, working together to combat complex crimes in the Heywood and surrounding areas.
According to Officer Matthew Honey from the Heywood Neighborhood Team of the Greater Manchester Police, “Our ongoing efforts in Heywood are helping to transform the landscape of our city center. We do not want shops selling illegal goods, profiting from criminal activities, or taking advantage of vulnerable communities.
