Three Darlington stores have been closed for three months for selling illegal vapes, cigarettes and tobacco.
The premises closure orders were heard at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday (August 27). Magistrates granted the closure orders for Darlo Vapes, on High Northgate; DIMA Mini Market, on North Road and the UK Mini Market on Victoria Road due to the persistent sale of illegal vapes, cigarettes and tobacco.
The court heard how trading standards officers from Darlington Borough Council trading standards team had uncovered large quantities of illegal products concealed within each of the premises.
The discoveries followed a series of investigations and premises searches aimed at curbing the illegal tobacco and vape trade, which poses significant risks to public health and undermines legitimate businesses.
All three of the stores had repeatedly failed test purchases made by officers, selling counterfeit and illegal tobacco and over-strength vapes.
In total, approximately 16,800 illegal cigarettes were seized along with 9.5 kilograms of illegal tobacco and 199 vapes from the three locations. The illicit nature of the products often means they do not comply with safety regulations, putting consumers at risk of serious health issues.
Shaun Trevor, the council’s trading standards and animal health manager, said: "The sale of illegal tobacco and vapes is a serious crime that endangers public health and supports a criminal supply chain. These closure orders send a clear message that we will not tolerate this illegal activity in our community.”
The court action follows extensive investigation work and intelligence gathering under Operation Oracle into the supply of illegal and over-strength goods in Darlington, and the sale of vapes to children. Trading standards is continuing its efforts, alongside Durham Constabulary, to target businesses involved in the illegal tobacco trade and to educate the public about the risks associated with using unregulated products.
Cllr Amanda Riley, the council’s cabinet member for stronger communities said: “Our trading standards team take all complaints seriously and will investigate, and as this court result shows, will take action against problem businesses.”
Neighbourhood Inspector Jim O’Connor, from Durham Constabulary, added: “Illicit and dangerous tobacco 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.
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“Supplying these products to underage children can also open them up to potential exploitation and criminality – if you are doing this, then you can expect a visit from us.
“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 this closure order has shown.”
If you have any information that can assist trading standards please email tradingstandards@darlington.gov.uk or report it using the online form (this can be done anonymously) at www.darlington.gov.uk/ts-report-it
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