A Trading Standards investigation into the sale of illicit tobacco and illegal vapes has resulted in a shop being forced to close.
The closure order to shut Avah Market, in High Street, Orpington follows a long investigation into the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes at the premises, which also included the tobacco being stored in vehicles nearby. The closure order is the first ever such order in the borough following Bromley Magistrate Court approval.
A council spokesperson said, “We will not tolerate the illegal sale of tobacco and vapes, with the related health concerns well documented as well. The Trading Standards action to close this store in Orpington follows detailed investigation to both stop the sales and to gather the required action to take this legal action and we are grateful to the police for their support as well. Whilst it is the first time we have closed a shop in this way, it may not be the last time and others are warned that we will take action to prevent the sale of illegal tobacco or vapes, including to stop under age sales as well.”
The news followed Trading Standards Officers finding and seizing 140 packs of illegal tobacco that were concealed and also 245 illicit vapes, in action taken before the court hearing. The tobacco is at least of non-standardised packaging, and the individual vapes claim thousands of puffs meaning the tank size will far exceed the legal limit of 2ml. The health warning shown on the majority of vapes seized is also non-compliant.
Residents and shoppers are being encouraged to report any concerns about the sale of illegal tobacco or vapes, as well as any information about under age sales of these or any other restricted products to Trading Standards, through the council’s website or by calling 0808 223 1133.
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Editor’s note - The 3 month closure order was obtained at Bromley Magistrates Court on 27 February, with Avah Market at 126 High Street, Orpington, being formally closed on 28 February, with the council’s Trading Standards team and police continuing to monitor the situation.
For media enquiries, please contact Andrew Rogers, Head of Public Affairs, on 020 8461 7670 or email Andrew.Rogers@bromley.gov.uk.