A convenience store in Hartlepool has been ordered to shut down for repeatedly selling illicit tobacco, cigarettes and vapes.
According to local reports, International Food Store in Murray Street, Hartlepool has been given a three-month order, granted by Teesside Magistrates’ Court following an application by Hartlepool Borough Council’s Trading Standards Team.
The court heard there had been numerous complaints about the sale of illicit tobacco from the premises. A police operation in July found 400 packets of illegal cigarettes, 154 pouches of illegal tobacco and 155 non-compliant e-cigarettes with a combined street value of approximately £4,780 which were seized.
At the hearing, held on Wednesday, August 21, costs totalling £2691.89 were awarded to Hartlepool Borough Council. Whilst the closure order is in force, nobody is allowed access to the premises apart from officers of the local authority.
Councillor Brenda Harrison, leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said, “I’d like to thank the council’s Trading Standards Team and Cleveland Police for their excellent work in gathering the evidence needed to take this matter to court.
“This legal action shows how we are determined to tackle illegal activity such as that occurring at the International Food Store.
“Had the order not been granted, there is no doubt that the criminal behaviour emanating from these premises would have continued, resulting in the continued sale of illicit and illegal products to the detriment of people’s health and local businesses operating within the law.”
Simon Hannah
