UPDATES: A complex investment fraud that persuaded victims to sink millions into fine wine has ended with the conviction of three fraudsters following a lengthy Trading Standards investigation. The case illustrates the persistence required to tackle sophisticated scams targeting vulnerable consumers.

---

UPDATES: A major multi-agency operation in Northumberland has taken thousands of illicit cigarettes and tobacco products off the streets, dealing a significant blow to suspected organised crime networks. Acting on intelligence, Trading Standards and police uncovered large-scale illegal supplies and warned that tackling illicit tobacco is vital to protecting public health and local communities ...

UPDATES: A substantial seizure of illicit tobacco in Northumberland has disrupted a suspected organised crime network following intelligence-led action by Trading Standards and police. The operation highlights the continuing importance of partnership working and public intelligence in tackling illegal supply chains.

---

UPDATES: Trading Standards in Northern Ireland has prosecuted a builder who took £20,000 for an extension he failed to complete, leaving a homeowner with a half-built structure and major financial losses. The case highlights the devastating impact of rogue traders, with the offender convicted of fraud and ordered to pay compensation ...

UPDATES: A Belfast builder has been fined after taking a substantial deposit for a home extension that was left incomplete. The case highlights the financial and emotional impact rogue traders can have on householders.

---

UPDATES: Lincolnshire Trading Standards has carried out its largest-ever illegal tobacco seizure, removing more than 320,000 illicit cigarettes and 165kg of hand rolling tobacco in coordinated raids with police. Two shops were closed for three months as officers warned of links to organised crime, public safety risks and serious fire hazards ...

---

UPDATES: A driveway trader who posed under a false name has been convicted after ripping off homeowners with shoddy, overpriced and unfinished work. An investigation uncovered fraud, illegal waste dumping and broken consumer laws, leaving victims thousands out of pocket. Now ordered to repay £11,000, the case highlights how rogue traders operate and how Trading Standards shut them down ...

UPDATES: Lincolnshire Trading Standards has carried out its largest ever seizure of illegal tobacco and vapes, leading to closure orders for two premises and highlighting the continuing fight against the illicit market.

UPDATES: A rogue driveway contractor who deceived householders with poor-quality and unfinished work has been sentenced following a Trading Standards prosecution. The case also secured compensation under proceeds of crime legislation.

---

UPDATES: A Plymouth glazier who intimidated customers, carried out shoddy work and misused a trusted trader logo has been sentenced after a Trading Standards prosecution. Complaints revealed fraud, threats and misleading claims that left victims distressed and out of pocket - ending with a suspended prison sentence, community service and a director ban ...