Traders in Torbay dubbed a “counterfeit capital” are selling illegal cigarettes and vapes linked to organised crime rings – offering cheap fakes at risk to townsfolk
This beautiful area on England’s scenic southwest coast has been dubbed a major hotspot for counterfeit tobacco and vaping products that could be causing health problems.
Authorities in Torbay – an area in Devon that sees thousands flock to holiday hotspots like Torquay every year – are clamping down on shops selling £5 knock-off cigarettes and vapes.
Trading standards and police raids have led to the seizure of hundreds of fake cigarette packs, pouches of contraband tobacco, and illegal vapes. Despite court orders requiring shop closures, many of these outlets simply reopen under different names or in new locations, worsening local frustrations who fear its turning their area into a crime-ridden zone.
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This wave of illicit activity has exposed troubling connections between these shops and organised crime networks tied to human trafficking, modern slavery, drug distribution, and even guns.
Torbay lies in one of the prettiest areas of the UK, often dubbed the English Riviera, and is home to the popular towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham.
The link between counterfeit goods and broader criminality has sparked outcry among legitimate business owners and residents.
Misfits tattoo shop manager Shelley Ballon, who moved to Torbay from New Zealand, expressed deep frustration at the shift in her town’s character.
“A normal person can’t afford to open shops here now… it’s full of vape shops and Turkish barbers,” she told The Sun, adding she felt offended that criminal operations were undermining honest entrepreneurs. “I feel sorry for the genuine traders.”
Another longtime resident, 46-year-old piercer Polina Bradshaw, lamented the rapid spread of suspicious businesses. She noted too many vape shops and “Turkish barbers” opening without visible customers, and that established local businesses were suffering in their wake.
Local families have also seen their sense of safety erode. One young mother, Leah Beattie, recalled growing up feeling safe walking home after school – an assurance her own children no longer feel in the current atmosphere of the town centre.
Health risks extend beyond criminal associations. The fake products mimic legal brands but lack vital safety features like self-extinguishing paper, which has already been linked to several house fires.
Residents report that counterfeit items often cause chest infections and have distinct, unpleasant smells. Trading standards officers, using sniffer dogs, have uncovered hidden stashes behind walls, under floorboards, and in secret compartments.
Regional data highlights the escalating problem. A multi-week, multi-agency operation in early 2025 seized more than 1,600 packets of illegal cigarettes, nearly 4,500 vapes, and tobacco worth thousands in street value across Torbay and Devon.
Councillor David Thomas confirmed that acting against criminal distribution channels remains a top priority to shield local communities and legal businesses.
Inspector Rob Harvey of Devon & Cornwall Police said coordinated efforts to shutter shops and send a strong enforcement message were critical.
Trading standards operations manager Alex Fry confirmed that several premises had been found with purpose-built hiding places for illicit products and that disruption – not prosecution – had become the most viable strategy.
Torbay Council’s deputy leader, Chris Lewis, warned that the town’s reputation suffers without ample enforcement, while Councillor Hayley Tranter emphasised these unregulated products are not only illegal but also pose serious health risks.
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