Yahoo News County Durham shop forced to shut after selling illicit cigarettes to trading standards four times
A County Durham shop has been told to close after being caught selling illicit cigarettes on four occasions.
The UK Mini Market store - in South Moor near Stanley - has been ordered to close for three months following a hearing at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates' Court. This comes after trading standards officers were able to purchase illicit cigarettes on four separate occasions between September 2023 and May this year.
The investigation - carried out by officers at Durham County Council and supported by Durham Constabulary - came after members of the community raised concerns. Following the test purchases, an inspection of the shop and the adjacent upstairs flat saw 39 packets of illict cigarettes, 35 pouches of rolling tobacco and 342 illegal vapes seized.
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A further 123 illegal vapes with oversized tanks were seized from behind the shop’s counter, with the value of the items seized coming to £5,600. Some of the goods are suspected to be counterfeit and many did not contain the legally required health warnings. A criminal investigation is ongoing.
Gary Carr, Durham County Council’s strategic regulation manager, said: "Our trading standards officers have been tenacious in their investigations to secure this three-month closure order, which is the maximum the magistrates can impose. Selling illicit tobacco is not a victimless crime but those responsible care little about the harm they’re causing. They’re only interested in making money."
Mr Carr said the activity was a "real nuisance" that damaged "honest and law-abiding businesses" and made smoking more accessible than it should be to children.
He added: "That’s why we work with partner agencies to crack down on it. Local people can help us by reporting any sales of illicit tobacco or vape products to us so we can take the necessary action."
To report illicit cigarette sales or similar issues, contact the council’s community protection service by calling 03000 261 016 or emailing cpintelligence@durham.gov.uk. Tobacco crime can also be reported anonymously by ringing 0330 999 0000 or completing an online form here.
