Police seized illegal cigarettes worth £1.2 million in raids on four residential properties in Fartown.

The raids, carried out by Kirklees Police, West Yorkshire Trading Standards and His Majesty’s Revenue & Customs, targeted organised crime gangs.

Across West Yorkshire a total of nine properties were raided on Monday February 2.

From four addresses in Fartown, 1.3 million illicit cigarettes were found along with thousands of pounds in cash. The cigarettes were valued at approximately £1.2 million.

The intelligence led multi-agency operation took place as part of West Yorkshire Trading Standards’ Illicit Tobacco initiative.

It also follows the seizure of illegal cigarettes in Meltham last month and several very large seizures in Huddersfield in 2025, in which contraband tobacco products worth over £100,000 were found.

Police and other agencies continue efforts to crack down on sources of finance for organised crime gangs and bring offenders to justice.

Insp Amanda Holroyd, of Kirklees Police, said: “We have been pleased to work with our partners on what has been a significant operation which has resulted in the capture of very large amounts of illegal goods.

“Seizing these items safeguards the public from products which are typically unregulated and untested and can contain dangerous levels of nicotine and other harmful substances.

“It is also proven that money raised from illegal tobacco sales can be used to fund organised crime, which is another reason it is important we prevent these products from being circulated on our streets.

“None of us want to see organised crime in our neighbourhoods and I encourage residents to keep contacting us with any information which can help us disrupt criminal activity and the sale of illegal goods.”

Head of trading standards Linda Davis urged the public to continue to report their suspicions and said: “Far from being a victimless crime, the illegal trade in tobacco costs the Government billions each year in lost revenue, makes it easier for children to start smoking, takes advantage of cash-strapped families and helps fund organised crime.”

Reports can be made to West Yorkshire Police via 101, online at https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/livechat or anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111 or online webchat.