WATCH: Police footage reveals ingenious hiding spots criminals are using to store illicit tobacco products in Lincolnshire

From sliding brick walls to trapdoors hidden behind radiators, some of the crafty ways criminals attempt to hide illicit tobacco and vape products have been revealed.

A new video made public by Lincolnshire Police reveals the task they are up against in finding these illegal products, which can often be related to organised crime gangs.

Electronic hatches hidden above shelves and in the ground are also among the ingenious ways lawbreakers are attempting to hide dodgy tobacco and vapes from officers so they can be sold to the public.

However, with the help of their own cunning, and some energetic sniffer digs, police are cracking these hidden safespots, as this new video uploaded to YouTube proves.

“This week we are diving deep into the murky world of illicit tobacco and vapes,” a police statement said.

“We're uncovering hidden truths about shops selling these illegal goods, with a special focus on the east of the county.

“These shops are often a front for other serious criminality such as money laundering, illegal working, human trafficking, and drug supply.

“Many of the shop workers are victims, trafficked into crime by profiteers.”

The video has been put together using video-worn cameras, courtesy of Trading Standards.

“These illegal activities harm legitimate businesses and fund further crimes, often monopolising high street spaces, driving out lawful small businesses,” the statement added.

“Our communities bear the brunt, facing anti-social behaviour, underage sales, and drug offences.

“The sale of illicit tobacco products isn’t just a public health issue — Lincolnshire Police and partners are tackling these highly complex crimes head-on.

“Criminals go to great lengths to hide their illicit goods. The catalogue of videos shown here reveals some of the devious tactics used to hide their underworld activity.

“Many of these shops are run by highly coordinated organised criminal gangs - underscoring the gravity and sophistication of the criminal activities we're confronting in the battle against illicit tobacco sales.

“As you can see, some of these hiding spots are pretty good, if not ingenious. But we're better.”

If you know of any illegal tobacco sales you can report them anonymously via CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

Shops found selling these illicit products can be shut for months at a time as punishment, while owners and staff can be prosecuted.