Illicit tobacco worth an estimated £2,000 has been seized by police from shops in a bid to tackle organised crime.

And during the operation, they caught a man wanted for recall to prison.

Officers were joined by a team from Kent County Council’s Trading Standards on Wednesday to ensure shops in Margate licensed to sell tobacco and alcohol were doing so within the law.

A total of 17 shops were inspected, with officers seizing tobacco, cigarettes and vapes from two.

During the operation, which was to reduce the risk of antisocial behaviour in the district, officers also spotted a man wanted for recall to prison.

The 45-year-old was arrested in Northdown Road.

Insp Jim Woodward said: “Businesses have a responsibility to ensure they are trading legally when it comes to the sales of goods including tobacco and alcohol.

“Without their cooperation, it can lead to issues in communities relating to nuisance behaviour, and although it is carried out by a small number of people, it can have a big impact.

“Also, very often the sale of illicit goods are supporting organised criminal groups.

“It is important to consider that anyone buying this tobacco might think it is a bargain price, but it can prove costly for all, as each purchase supports more serious crime in the area.”