Joint crackdown targets illegal activity linked to high street mini-marts 

Operation Stance is a force-wide initiative targeting criminality associated with some 24/7 convenience stores, including the sale of illicit tobacco and vapes, unsafe goods and links to wider organised crime. 

The council’s Trading Standards team has been working alongside officers from West Midlands Police and partner agencies to carry out a series of targeted enforcement operations at a number of premises across the city. The activity forms part of an ongoing effort to disrupt criminal networks, protect residents and support legitimate local businesses. 

Between 12 and 14 May, three joint enforcement operations were carried out, resulting in the seizure of thousands of pounds worth of illicit goods and action taken against suspected offenders. 

During one raid in Aston, Trading Standards and police officers seized more than 11,000 illicit cigarettes, 2kg of counterfeit hand rolling tobacco and almost 200 illegal vapes, with an estimated value of around £10,000. 

Further activity included coordinated visits to two premises on Ladypool Road as part of Operation Stance and Operation Cloud. Across those operations, officers and Trading Standards teams seized around 8,000 illicit/counterfeit cigarettes, 280 disposable vapes, nine large nitrous oxide canisters and over 100 illicit smokeless tobacco products. Three arrests were made and one vehicle was seized, with more than £10,000 worth of illegal goods recovered. 

Further enforcement activity is continuing as part of Operation Stance, with partners using a wide range of powers to investigate offences to remove illegal goods from sale and hold those responsible to account.  

This type of criminality is often linked to wider organised crime and exploitation, and can have a significant and damaging impact on local communities. The sale of illicit and unsafe goods not only puts public health at risk but also fuels wider criminality, undermines legitimate traders and damages the local economy.  

Sajeela Naseer, Director of Regulation and Enforcement at Birmingham City Council, said: “Tackling illegal activity linked to some high street mini-mart style shops is a key priority for the council and our partners. These businesses can cause significant harm to local communities, from the sale of unsafe and illicit goods to links with wider organised crime, which undermines legitimate traders and puts residents at risk. 

“Through Operation Stance, we are working closely with West Midlands Police and other agencies to take robust enforcement action, remove illegal products from our streets and hold those responsible to account. This joint approach is already delivering results, and we will continue to use every power available to protect our communities and support safe, thriving local high streets.” 

Residents are encouraged to report concerns about illegal activity in their area so that action can be taken.