A store in Boughton has been closed down following a Cheshire Police operation targeting wanted criminals across the county.

Officers recently seized a large quantity of illegal products, after conducting a number of trading standards operations across Chester, Northwich and Winsford.

It followed the roll-out of Operation Crossbow, a day of intensified action targeting wanted criminals across the county - with 50 outstanding criminals arrested as a result.

Aiming to disrupt criminal activity across Cheshire and its borders, the operation had a particular focus on locating criminals who remained outstanding for violence against women and girls, domestic abuse, rape and serious sexual offences.

A number of other operational activities were also conducted - including a trading standards deployment, with officers visiting eight retailers across Chester, Northwich and Winsford.

During visits to local businesses, officers found considerable quantities of illegal tobacco and vape products. Additionally, these illicit products had been hidden in concealments out of sight within the shops.

With the assistance of the specialist detection dogs, the products were quickly identified and seized by officers.

Following this, a store in Boughton was served a closure order notice on Friday 6 February. It will remain closed for the next three months.

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Colleagues from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service also served a Prohibition Notice on the flat above the premises.

It is estimated that around £14k of illegal cigarettes were seized, along with around £5k worth of illegal tobacco.

Inspector James Wilson, who oversaw the operation, said: "This operation conducted across Winsford, Northwich and Chester sends a clear message that illegal tobacco and vaping products have no place in the west.

"Today's results are a testament to the excellent work of our officers and partners who are committed to bringing organised criminals, as well as those who exploit the most vulnerable people in our society, to justice.

"With that in mind, we cannot take action like this without your support. Information submitted to us from members of the public is vital to our investigations.

"I would encourage anyone with any information or concerns about illegal activity in their area to get in touch."