Residents urged to report illegal tobacco crimes to Crimestoppers

RESIDENTS across Wales who think someone is selling illegal tobacco can now report it anonymously, thanks to a new campaign.

Trading Standards Wales has joined forces with the charity Crimestoppers to provide a service, which enables members of the public to anonymously provide valuable information to help keep communities safe and healthy.

It is one of five issues that Trading Standards Wales and Crimestoppers are working together on, to encourage members of the public to provide information on concerns they might have, 100% anonymously. If you have information on any of the following, you can tell us what you know:

Doorstep crime
Sale of age-restricted products
Counterfeit goods
Rogue trading

Helen Picton, Chair of Trading Standards Wales, said: “We’re delighted to be working with Crimestoppers and giving members of the public a way to report these crimes anonymously.

“Illegal tobacco is causing harm to communities across Wales, and the sale of it supports organised crime and keeps money away from vital services. It also encourages smokers to continue smoking and encourages children to try smoking.

“If you think someone is selling illegal tobacco, you can help stop the harm it’s causing by reporting it to Crimestoppers. Your information can help keep communities across Wales safe and healthy.”

If you think that someone is selling illegal tobacco call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or visit http://crimestoppers-uk.org and tell them what you know.