The Fed works with Crimestoppers to help members report illegal tobacco

The Fed is working with the charity Crimestoppers to encourage members to report illegal tobacco anonymously. Like the Fed, Crimestoppers is trying to raise awareness of the link between illicit tobacco and organised crime.

To report illegal tobacco sales – as well as illicit activity linked to importing, storage or other supply – contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via the reporting form on its website: www.crimestoppers-uk.org

You should still contact the Police on 999 in an emergency, or 101 if you need to discuss a non-urgent matter with the Police.

Crimestoppers has emphasised that funds from illegal tobacco are often linked to drug dealing, people trafficking, money laundering and the smuggling of weapons.

The Fed has been vocal in recent months by calling on the government to do more to tackle illicit tobacco by introducing stricter and longer closure orders, better resourcing for trading standards and calling for more coordination across law enforcement on this matter, which is a growing concern.

(The Fed’s National President, Hemanshu Patel, pictured)

Commenting, the Fed’s President Hemanshu Patel, said: “As the Fed has repeatedly said, this matter is a great concern for our members, as it undermines legitimate responsible trade. It is in the interests of responsible businesses and law enforcement alike that illegal behaviour is reported. I encourage Fed members to report through Crimestoppers where they can – and they can be assured it is entirely anonymous”.