Thousands of pounds worth of illegal cigarettes, tobacco and vapes were seized from two shops in Plumstead.

On April 26 Greenwich Council and the Metropolitan Police executed a search warrant for a shop in Plumstead.

Police made a purchase and confirmed that the products were illegal.

While they were on the scene, a man was seen “throwing products to a neighbouring window and exiting the building”.

The products the man was trying to discard have since been confirmed as illegal cigarettes and vapes, which police have now seized.

Several bags containing illegal tobacco and cigarettes were seized in the neighbouring flat with an estimated value of £15,000.

On April 28 police seized further illegal goods.

They found 1,500 packets of illegal cigarettes and a large quantity of illegal vapes.

According to Greenwich Council, they have a “black market value of £16,000”.

The business owners were taken to court for possession and intent to distribute illegal products.

A council spokesperson said: “Selling illegal tobacco products and vapes could have a detrimental effect on our resident’s health, not to mention damaging the reputation of other local businesses.

“If you suspect the sale of illegal goods, it’s important to report it to the London Trading Standards so we can work to get these removed from our streets.

“We will continue to carry out these seizures along with the police to improve the quality of life and health of our residents and to ensure that everyone in Greenwich is safer and feels safer.”

Anyone who suspects the sale of illegal or counterfeit tobacco products or vapes is asked to report it anonymously online to London trading standards or to the National Consumer Helpline on 0808 2231133.