A significant amount of tobacco was found in St Albans which was intended to be supplied to young people.

Police and Trading Standards officials carried out a Section 23 search warrant at an address in St Peter’s Ward on Wednesday, July 25.

St Albans Central, North and West Safer Neighbourhood Team Sgt Paul Caro said: “A significant amount of tobacco was recovered from the address, which we believe was being supplied to local young people.

“We also recovered suspected stolen items from inside, which we’re linking to thefts from motor vehicles in the St Albans district and there is an on-going investigation into the male occupant of the property.

“We were working in partnership with Trading Standards following information from the local community about suspected criminal activity that was taking place at the address.

“This demonstrates the positive police action that we can take when residents act as our eyes and ears on the ground and report suspicious activity.

“We are dedicated to tackling crime and anti-social behaviour through proactive work with our partners.”

The search was carried out by the Herts Police Scorpion Team, which deals with burglars, robbers and those involved in drug and vehicle-related crime, and the Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Cllr Terry Hone, cabinet member for community protection, said: “People who sell tobacco illegally are not concerned about who buys it, or what it could potentially contain. This kind of operation also undermines legitimate businesses.

“We will continue to work with the police and other partners to ensure that the public are kept safe from this sort of illegal activity.”