Stores raided and men held in bogus tobacco raids

More than 50,000 illicit cigarettes, a Rolex watch and three vehicles have been seized during raids on three stores and two homes in Chester, with three men arrested.

Cheshire Police and Trading Standards officers launched the searches as part of Operation Dockyard, which is focusing on suspected illegal traders.

Three stores on Brook Street, a residential address on Walter Street and an address on Glebe Meadows, Mickle Trafford, were targeted on Friday.

Two men aged 40 and 43 were arrested on suspicion of money laundering, while a third man was detained for immigration offences. Cash and a police style baton were also discovered.

The two men arrested for money laundering have since been released on bail pending further inquiries.

Cheshire Police said the operation was part of the force's ongoing efforts to crack down on people intent on selling illicit products and those involved in immigration crime.

"While many businesses across Cheshire are operating within the law, there are a brazen few who believe they can get away with breaking the law," Det Sgt Paul Huxley said.

"But as demonstrated with this operation, we will not stand for that."

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