The items were discovered on Wednesday, March 4, during an operation targeting three businesses in Shirley.
Hampshire police have not released the names of these businesses.
Police intelligence indicated that the premises were involved in the sale of illegal tobacco, non‑compliant vapes and knives, as well as concerns that staff may have been working illegally or facing exploitation.
Officers found and seized approximately £10,000 worth of illegal tobacco and vapes, which had been concealed within the stores to avoid detection.
During the operation, police said they engaged with workers to ensure their safety and to check whether they were being exploited.
The operation was carried out by the force’s dedicated Modern Slavery and Organised Immigration Crime team, supported by colleagues from Shirley and Freemantle Neighbourhood Policing Teams and Southampton City Council Trading Standards.
PC Antony Waghorn from the Modern Slavery and Organised Immigration Crime team said: “We, along with our partners, are committed to identifying and tackling criminal activity that harms our communities, exploits vulnerable people and undermines legitimate local businesses.
“As part of this operation, we removed a significant quantity of illegal tobacco products and vapes from circulation and spoke with workers to ensure they were safe, supported and not being taken advantage of.
“Protecting people from exploitation remains at the heart of our work.
“We will continue to pursue those responsible for organising and profiting from this type of offending and ensure they are held to account.”
The public is being encouraged to report information related to illegal tobacco or vapes, or any concerns about exploitation or criminal activity.
Reports can be made to the police by calling 101.
Alternatively, information can be given anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.