Counterfeit cigarettes worth £3,000 discovered in boot of abandoned car by police
“A great result from information provided by the public and some proactive police work”
Counterfeit cigarettes with an estimated street value of around £3,000 have been recovered from an abandoned car by police.
The discovery of the haul came after, while acting on information from the community, officers from Fylde Rural Task Force located an abandoned vehicle with the boot ajar.
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“It appeared to be concealing items inside and whilst making enquiries with the vehicle, a man came round the corner matching a description provided and was stopped by officers,” said a Lancashire Police spokesperson.
“A search of the male revealed he was carrying the key to the abandoned car.
“When we searched the vehicle, we discovered counterfeit cigarettes in the boot with an estimated street value of around £3,000.
“Further enquiries linked the male to a convenience shop in the St Annes area.
“Trading Standards were contacted, attended the scene and will now be progressing matters with the premises.”
The spokesperson said that it was “a great result from information provided by the public and some proactive police work”, adding: “We can't be everywhere, but with your help we can be in the right place at the right time.
“If something seems suspicious or doesn't feel right, please report it. Your information really can make a difference.”