Boo's nose knows!

The operation was led by Trading Standards who brought in specialist sniffer dog Boo -  a four year old Labrador/German Wirehaired Pointer Cross bitch who already has an extensive track record in sniffing out counterfeit tobacco products thanks to her well educated nose. 

Councillor Graham Barton, Spokesperson for Planning, Property and Environment said: “Thanks to a culmination of intelligence from various sources, including vigilant members of the public, Trading Standards were able to pinpoint the premises and carried out the visit accompanied by colleagues in Police Scotland. 

“Boo proved her worth as always, quickly finding the products the team were after, despite the best efforts of the culprits to conceal the evidence. 

“This is another important step in our bid to protect both businesses and public from the hazards presented by this illicit trade.  We already know that ordinary tobacco is dangerous enough to health, but these fake cigarettes are much more harmful both healthwise and financially. 

“They’re typically imported into the UK from Eastern Europe where they’re manufactured in unhygienic factories using all sorts of unknown and potentially poisonous substances and cheap materials.  Anyone choosing to smoke them is taking a big risk with their own health. 

“The people making and supplying these products use the proceeds to fund further crimes including the smuggling of weapons, drugs, and human beings across the globe. “In local terms they’re also undercutting genuine businesses, avoiding tax and depriving the Treasury of funds, which could be contributing to our health services, schools and infrastructure.

“While we can be satisfied that the culprits in this crime have been caught this time and will face punishment, we know that it’s an ongoing issue. And we can’t stress enough how grateful we are to all those whose vigilance and the care they take to report suspicions and supply information are vital to our teams. 

“In East Ayrshire we pride ourselves in working together with partner organisations, our businesses and communities to improve wellbeing and prosperity for all, building wealth in the community.  The success of this latest mission is proof that this partnership approach works very effectively to improve life and safety for all.”