UK Border Force officers have seized more than 4.8 million illegal cigarettes and 405kg of rolling tobacco worth an estimated £2.59 million in a four-day operation at Manchester Airport.

The Home Office said the crackdown, which targeted high-risk flights, baggage and passengers, also led to four arrests and the denial of entry to 23 people. Officers additionally recovered 35kg of cannabis.

In one case, a passenger arriving from Dubai was caught attempting to smuggle 100,000 cigarettes concealed in six suitcases. Smugglers used methods including modified pillows and false-bottomed suitcases, with specialist detector dogs deployed during the operation.

Twenty-six people have been referred for further investigation. Authorities warned that those involved in tobacco smuggling face up to seven years in prison and possible airline bans. Foreign nationals risk having their Electronic Travel Authorisations cancelled.

The operation forms part of wider efforts by Border Force and HM Revenue and Customs to combat the illicit tobacco trade, which undercuts legitimate businesses and funds organised crime.