Police Crackdown Shuts Two Romford Shops After £40,000 Illicit Tobacco Seizure.

9th November 20269th November 2026 Francesca Lilleystone 0 Comments min read

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.

The successful operation highlights the continued work of Havering Police and Trading Standards in tackling criminal activity, removing illegal goods from the high street and protecting legitimate local businesses.

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.

The results demonstrate the importance of joint enforcement action in disrupting illegal trading and sending a clear message that criminal activity will not be tolerated on Havering’s high streets.

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.