***Cardiff Shops Selling Illegal Tobacco and Vapes Ordered to Shut***
Two shops in Clifton Street, Cardiff, have been temporarily ordered to close after being found selling illegal tobacco products and e-cigarettes. Vape Mini Market and Best One Vape were shut down for three months by Shared Regulatory Services (SRS) following anti-social behaviour closure orders issued by Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on November 22 and November 26. The closure orders are immediate and will prohibit the shops from trading for the next three months. Violating these orders could result in the business owners facing three months of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
An investigation was initiated based on public complaints regarding the sale of illegal tobacco and e-cigarettes at these establishments. Test purchases revealed that the shops were selling counterfeit tobacco, illegal e-cigarettes, and duty-free cigarettes smuggled into the UK at significantly reduced prices. For instance, 50g of counterfeit Amber Leaf tobacco was being sold for as little as £5, a substantial markdown from the average retail price of £40. Cardiff Council stated that the availability of illegal tobacco poses significant harm to the community, especially enticing young people and individuals with lower incomes while undermining efforts to encourage smokers to quit.
Cardiff Council emphasised that the sale of illegal tobacco often has ties to other criminal activities, with organised crime groups frequently controlling the market and using proceeds from sales to fund further illicit ventures. The collaborative effort to investigate the two shops involved contributions from South Wales Police, Ash Wales, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, HM Customs and Excise, as well as local city councillors. Those with information related to the sale of illegal tobacco are encouraged to report anonymously at https://noifs-nobutts.co.uk/report-illegal-tobacco-in-wales.
The proactive steps taken by SRS and other agencies underscore the commitment to combatting the sale of illicit tobacco and e-cigarette products in Cardiff. The closure of Vape Mini Market and Best One Vape serves as a warning to offenders that engaging in the trade of illegal goods will result in consequences. The enforcement of these closure orders sends a clear message that such activities will not be tolerated, safeguarding the community and promoting lawful business practices.
Illegal tobacco operations not only pose health risks but also fuel criminal behaviour, necessitating swift and decisive action by authorities to address these issues. The closure of these shops reflects a significant victory in the ongoing battle against illegal trade practices, aiming to protect public health and safety while upholding the integrity of legitimate businesses in Cardiff. Collaborative efforts between law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, and community stakeholders are crucial in combating the illegal sale of tobacco and related products, ensuring a safer and more transparent marketplace for all.