Operation Lockstream: Major Crackdown Seizes £525k Worth of Illegal Cigarettes and Cash

A sweeping operation targeting organised immigration crime (OIC) has resulted in the seizure of more than half a million pounds’ worth of illegal cigarettes and cash in targeted enforcements across Lincolnshire. This operation, known as ‘Operation Lockstream’, involved joint efforts with both local and national colleagues over three days.

On 16 June, officers conducted enforcement activity in Boston, uncovering one of the largest illicit tobacco hauls ever seen in the UK. The team seized 348,500 cigarettes – equivalent to more than 17,500 packs of 20 cigarettes – alongside over a quarter of a tonne (280.5kg) of hand-rolling tobacco. Together, the products are estimated to be worth more than £525,000. Additionally, £2,000 in cash was seized.

Two men, aged 36 and 29, were arrested at premises on Main Ridge East and Market Place in Boston respectively on suspicion of possession of forged or counterfeit goods for export/import, and duty or tax evasion matters. One person is being dealt with by Immigration Enforcement.

In Lincoln, six visits were carried out in the High Street, Portland Street, and St Mark’s areas. Six people were arrested, two of whom were on suspicion of modern-day slavery offences. Four others were dealt with by Immigration colleagues. £3,000 was recovered from one premises, and four people have been safeguarded as a result of the activity. A concealment containing illegal cigarettes was found in the ceiling of a premises on High Street, which was seized by Trading Standards.

On 1 July, six business premises visits were carried out in Spalding, resulting in the seizure of twenty packs of illicit tobacco and one stop and search that led to follow-up enquiries based on information gathered during the visits.

The enforcement activity is believed to have caused significant disruption to criminal operations. Officers found several concealed compartments or ‘hides’ – purpose-built spaces often hidden behind false walls – empty, suggesting those involved had been forced to move or remove stock as a result of the heightened enforcement activity.

As part of the operation, a Closure Order on 52 Upgate, Louth, was granted at Lincoln Magistrates’ Court. The application by Trading Standards was based on criminal activity on the premises, namely possession for supply of illegal cigarettes and tobacco. Cllr Alex McGonigle, executive councillor for Lincolnshire Trading Standards at the county council, said: “The huge seizure of illegal goods in Boston will make a real difference in keeping unsafe products off our streets.”

Lincolnshire Police’s Intelligence Bureau Detective Inspector Paul Sands stated: “Organised Immigration Crime remains a complex and evolving threat and continues to be a national policing priority. This county-wide, multi-agency operation targeted cash-intensive businesses, including mini markets, fast-food outlets, vape shops, and barber shops, where organised criminality can seek to exploit legitimate trade.”

Local Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Callum Corder added: “This activity is so valuable for our crime disruption strategy, it also strengthens vital intelligence and information sharing, identifying and safeguarding vulnerable individuals. I reiterate that we are listening, and we hear your concerns. You may not see immediate action, but we are working hard in the background to address the matters that you raise to us.”

Lincolnshire County Council will instigate criminal legal proceedings against those responsible where appropriate to do so. The officer overseeing this intensification activity said: “Every concern raised and every piece of information shared plays a vital role in turning fragmented intelligence into a coherent and robust intelligence picture that supports disruption and prevention.”

Illegal working is seen most often in sectors including cleaning, construction, car washing, food production, and hospitality, and is frequently linked to modern slavery, tax evasion, licensing offences, and the sale of illegal products (in particular, illegal cigarettes). The officer coordinating operations on the day said: “Spotting the signs is crucial. If you see something that doesn’t look right, if you are worried about someone, or something looks suspicious, please report it.”

Residents are encouraged to report any concerns or suspicions to the relevant authorities. All information is handled sensitively and confidentially.