The illegal sale of cigarettes in the UK, particularly in Hull, highlights a pervasive issue linked to organized crime and its impact on high streets across Britain.

• £2.2 billion is the estimated annual revenue loss due to illegal tobacco sales.
• Alan, a former detective and now a Trading Standards officer, reported that there are around 80 shops in Hull selling illegal cigarettes.
• Some counterfeit cigarettes contain hazardous materials, raising safety concerns for consumers.