West Sussex Trading Standards Officers made an unexpected discovery during a routine journey back from inspections in Littlehampton last month.
While travelling along Billingshurst High Street, officers noticed a group of youths exiting a vape and tobacco store carrying what appeared to be nonstandard cigarette packs. Acting on instinct, the officers conducted an impromptu inspection of the premises. The search revealed a stash of illicit cigarettes and tobacco products concealed in a sewage drain at the rear of the business; the same drain connected to the shop’s toilet system.
From April to the end of August 2025, Trading Standards officers have seized 132,445 sticks of illicit cigarettes across West Sussex, highlighting the continued presence of illegal tobacco products in the county.
Cllr Duncan Crow, Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “This was a chance encounter, but it highlights how widespread the issue has become. The products found were not only illegal but potentially dangerous. Illicit tobacco often contains unregulated chemicals and poses serious health risks to consumers. We’re urging retailers to think twice before stocking these items and reminding the public to report anything suspicious.
“Protecting our communities is a key priority in Our Council Plan. These illegal products not only pose serious health risks, but they also undermine honest local businesses and fuel organised crime. Our Trading Standards team is working tirelessly to disrupt this harmful trade and safeguard the wellbeing of our residents.”
We are aware from Trading Standards colleagues across the country that such products can also contain dangerous, non-tobacco materials with reports of sawdust, plastics and even human hair having been found. Any residents with concerns about businesses selling illicit tobacco should phone 0808 223 1133 or report this online to Trading Standards at https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/business-and-consumers/trading-standards-information-for-consumers/report-an-incident-or-issue-to-trading-standards/
While illicit tobacco is especially hazardous, it’s important to remember that all tobacco products are harmful. Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable death, responsible for serious illnesses including cancer, heart disease, stroke and chronic respiratory conditions.
The best way to protect your health is to quit smoking. Free support is available to help people stop, including vapes and nicotine replacement products such as patches, gum and lozenges. Residents can visit the Smokefree West Sussex webpage or call 0330 222 7980 to access digital, telephone and face-to-face support.
