Dunstable retailer fined for selling illegal vapes and counterfeit cigarettes
Thursday, 28 November 2024
Selling illegal vaping devices and counterfeit cigarettes has cost a Dunstable retailer over £4,600.
Queensway News, located at 15 Queensway in Dunstable, was investigated following complaints and intelligence received. On 14 March 2024, enforcement officers seized 1,191 illegal vapes and 140 packets of counterfeit cigarettes during a visit to the store.
The case was heard at Luton Magistrates’ Court on Friday, 22 November 2024, where Mr. Kamal Tahidi, the Director of Queensway News, pleaded guilty to a total of 11 offences.
He was fined £380, ordered to pay court costs of £4,096, and a victim surcharge of £153, bringing the total to £4,632. The seized products were also ordered to be destroyed.
Councillor John Baker, our Executive Member responsible for Public Protection, said:
This case highlights the importance of enforcing laws designed to protect consumers. The sale of illegal tobacco and vaping products not only undermines legitimate businesses but also places public health at serious risk. We will continue to act against any retailer found to be breaking the law, ensuring harmful products are removed from the market and offenders are held accountable. We hope this serves as a clear warning to others.
Central Bedfordshire Trading Standards is seeking volunteers under the age of 18 to assist with inspections. Volunteers would attempt to purchase age-restricted items like vapes without ID to ensure compliance. The role involves visits across towns and villages in the region (not the volunteer’s home town).
All participants need written parental or guardian permission. Travel is arranged, and volunteers will receive a certificate that can enhance their CV.
If you're interested in volunteering or to report concerns about counterfeit or illegal vaping products, call 0300 300 8302, email trading.standards@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk, or report illegal tobacco or vapes online.