More than 33 million illicit cigarettes are seized from shops in the UK as part of a wider enforcement effort. Multiple outlets report the seizure as part of “Operation CeCe”, a joint initiative involving National Trading Standards and HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). The crackdown targets the supply and sale of illicit tobacco products through retail outlets, with authorities using their combined powers to identify and disrupt illegal distribution networks. The reports describe the operation as a coordinated action between trading standards bodies and HMRC, aiming to reduce tax evasion and protect consumers from illegal goods. The figure of 33 million-plus cigarettes represents the total amount seized in the described operation, though details on the number of shops involved, whether any arrests were made, and the location of the seizures are not included in the provided summaries. The actions are presented as part of ongoing efforts to enforce tobacco regulations and crack down on black-market products in retail settings.