Two Darlington stores have been closed after a council and police operation that was investigating illegal vapes and cigarettes.
Babylon Mini Market, in Gladstone Street, was ordered to be closed for three months from the date of an initial court hearing on 19 September and will remain closed until midnight on 18 December.
Meanwhile, Parkgate Mini Market, in Parkgate, was ordered to be closed for six weeks and will remain closed until midnight on November 13.
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Applications for the premises closure orders were heard at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (October 3) when the court was given evidence relating to the criminal activity and nuisance to neighbouring residents.
The action follows investigation work into the supply of illicit and over-strength goods in Darlington, and the sale of vapes to children as young as 12.
Criminal investigations are ongoing into the illegal supply of vapes and cigarettes from these and other premises within the town.
Parkgate Mini Market (Image: DARLINGTON BOROUGH COUNCIL)
Shaun Trevor, trading standards and animal health manager for Darlington Borough Council said: “Darlington trading standards will continue to take a zero tolerance stance on the supply of illegal vapes and cigarettes, particularly when they are sold to children.
"We will use every available tool, including premise closure orders, to stop these traders and will continue to work with partner agencies to have the greatest impact.”
Babylon European Mini Market (Image: DARLINGTON BOROUGH COUNCIL)
Councillor Amanda Riley, the council’s cabinet member for stronger communities, added: “Darlington trading standards team work very hard with partner agencies to stem the trade in illegal vapes and cigarettes and I would urge anyone with information which may assist them to report it.”
Inspector Matt Plumb, from Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team, said: “Illicit and dangerous cigarettes and vapes can not only cause serious harm to people’s health, but the proceeds are often invested into organised crime and can help fund more serious and violent offences.
“We know that our communities will not tolerate the antisocial behaviour and criminality that these activities bring.
"If you have any information regarding potential criminality in your community then please report it to us - we will always act on intelligence submitted to us, as these closure orders have shown.”
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