10 hours ago
'First-of-its-kind' closure for Stowmarket illegal vapes shop
A "first-of-its-kind" closure has been imposed on a shop after it was caught trying to conceal illegal vapes and tobacco products during multiple enforcement Convenience was shut down after Mid Suffolk District Council and Suffolk Trading Standards were granted permission to enforce a three-month closure Stowmarket store was searched in late 2023, on three occasions in 2024, and again at the start of this year, with hundreds of illegal goods being seized."We are very, very pleased and happy with the result because this [closure] is the first of its kind and another enforcement tool in our armoury," said James Garrett, senior officer from Suffolk Trading Standards.
"This is a clear deterrent and will impact this business in terms of their profits and send out a warning - neighbouring businesses will see the impact if there is repeated flouting of the law."
Graham Crisp, head of Suffolk Trading Standards, said the local government department would now look to obtain closure orders more regularly."The sale of illegal tobacco and vapes puts the public at risk and damages community trust," he said."We will be seeking to use this powerful enforcement mechanism much more in the future to tackle and prevent the sales of illegal tobacco and vapes."Initial action started in November 2023, when officers seized illegal tobacco hidden under the counter during an inspection of the then newly opened further inspections during 2024, supported by Suffolk Police and using tobacco detection dogs, revealed hidden concealments used to hide illegal total, 134 pouches of hand rolling tobacco, 463 packets of illegal cigarettes, and 458 illegal vapes were found and a tenancy change, further test purchase operations in late 2024 and early 2025 confirmed Star Convenience was still selling illegal tobacco.
'Sends a clear message'
Andy Mellen, leader of Mid Suffolk District Council, said he was "delighted" with the result of the operation's "zero-tolerance approach".Steve Wiles, Suffolk County Council cabinet member for public protection, meanwhile, said it sent a "clear message" that illegal activity would not be tolerated."These items are not only harmful to residents' health, but they also undermine legitimate local businesses and fund organised crime," he added.
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