Probation breach lands Milford Haven man with unpaid work order
TWO vape shops in Pembrokeshire have been forced to close for three months after enforcement officers seized illegal tobacco products and cash during a council-led operation.
KR Vapes in Milford Haven and Vape Zone in Haverfordwest—both operated by the same owner—were the subject of closure orders granted at Haverfordwest Magistrates' Court on Thursday (May 1).
The orders were made under Section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. Although the legislation is often associated with nuisance behaviour, in this case it was used by Pembrokeshire County Council to prevent further illegal sales of tobacco and related goods.
A council-led investigation led to the seizure of a large quantity of cigarettes at KR Vapes on Charles Street, Milford Haven. A local witness told The Herald they saw officers leaving the premises with 'large clear evidence bags full of cigarette packets.'
It is understood the products seized were either counterfeit or unlawfully imported foreign brands, not legally available for sale in the UK.
The owner of both shops, who spoke to The Herald on condition of anonymity, claimed that approximately £3,000 in cash was also seized during the raid on the Milford Haven store.
No criminal charges have been brought at this stage. The court heard only that notices had been served on both shops on April 16, and that the council was taking action to stop further unlawful trading while investigations continue.
The owner had previously told this newspaper that he hoped to re-open in 30 days, but those hopes have now been dashed.
The closure orders apply to the entirety of both premises.
Entry is prohibited to all persons at all times unless specifically authorised in writing by Pembrokeshire County Council.
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