The multi-agency operation, codenamed 'Machinize', was a national initiative co-ordinated by the National Crime Agency. It involved Scottish Borders Trading Standards, with assistance from Police Scotland.
The operation aimed to tackle money laundering and the criminal use of cash-intensive high street businesses. Councillor Robin Tatler, Executive Member for Public Safety and Resilience, stated, “Thank you to everyone involved. This sends a clear warning that profiting at the expense of our communities will not be tolerated.”
The one-day operation underscored the value of partnership working and intelligence provided by the public in disrupting organised crime within local communities.
Trading Standards is encouraging residents to continue reporting any concerns about suspected illicit tobacco to the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland (SCOTSS).
