Across five separate raids between 25 and 31 March, officers removed dangerous tobacco products, illegal vapes, nitrous oxide, counterfeit goods, and unsafe toys from circulation, taking harmful products off the shelves and helping protect local communities.
A premises was inspected on 25 March as part of continued intelligence led activity. Officers uncovered a significant quantity of illicit and unsafe products, including:
These items, many of which pose serious health and safety risks, were seized and removed from sale.
On the evening of 26 March, Trading Standards and West Midlands Police carried out a further joint operation in Small Heath following reports of illicit tobacco, illegal vapes and nitrous oxide being supplied from a premises previously visited in October 2025.
During the inspection, officers seized:
West Midlands Police seized both the vehicle and the nitrous oxide canisters. The repeat offending of this business highlights the ongoing challenges posed by unscrupulous traders and the importance of continued enforcement.
A further three raids took place across Erdington and Birmingham on 31 March, resulting in a combined seizure of 1,005 packets of hand-rolling tobacco and 5,402 cigarettes.
Further items were also seized across the locations, including 83 single‑use vapes, which are banned. The total value of items seized was more than £123,970.
Investigations into all premises involved are ongoing.
Protecting Communities and Taking Action
Operation Cloud reflects Birmingham City Council’s commitment to disrupting the illegal trade of counterfeit and unsafe goods. These products are often linked to organised crime, undermine legitimate businesses, and pose real health risks to residents, including children.
Sajeela Naseer, Director of Regulation and Enforcement at Birmingham City Council, said: “The sheer volume of illicit and unsafe items seized over these few days shows exactly why sustained, targeted action is essential. These goods are not just illegal, they are dangerous.
“We will continue to maximise joint interventions, identify offenders, seize harmful products and protect our communities from those who put profit before public safety.”
Operation Fearless Det Insp Tom Lyons said: “Working with partners at the City Council, including Trading Standards colleagues, is vital to the success of Operation Fearless.
“Since our launch in Erdington last year, we have carried out several joint operations with highly successful outcomes, much like this one.
“Fearless exists to drive down crimes that matter to local people – and we know that includes the trade of illicit and illegal goods.
“We will continue to work in partnership as our officers strive to help make Erdington as safe as possible for those living and working there.”
Residents were encouraged to report any suspicious activity or sales of illegal goods by contacting Birmingham Trading Standards on 0121 303 9360 or West Midlands Police on 101.
