A Weston-super-Mare shop owner has been sentenced following the seizure of illegal tobacco and vaping products worth approximately £10,000. Naseh Mahmoodi appeared at North Somerset Magistrates Court, where he received a 12-month community order and was required to complete 100 hours of unpaid work.
In addition to the community order, Mahmoodi was ordered to pay £8,500 in council investigation costs and a £114 victim surcharge. The court also issued a forfeiture order for all illegal tobacco and vaping products found at his premises.
The enforcement action took place in August 2023 when North Somerset Trading Standards, working alongside Avon and Somerset Police and the South West Regional Tobacco Specialist Officer, inspected Mahmoodi’s former business, Grand Super Market on Alexandra Parade. Officers uncovered 304 packets of cigarettes, 4.4 kilograms of hand-rolling tobacco, and 23 illicit vapes concealed at the shop.
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Most of the seized products were counterfeit, with others failing to meet tobacco safety regulations. These illicit goods pose health risks to consumers, distort fair business competition, and are frequently connected to broader criminal activities.
Councillor James Clayton, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services at North Somerset Council, emphasized the importance of maintaining safe, healthy communities and reaffirmed the council’s commitment to combating illegal tobacco trade. He praised the efforts of Trading Standards and partner agencies and warned that robust enforcement actions will continue against those involved in such illegal activities.
The council encourages anyone aware of the sale of illegal tobacco, illicit vapes, or counterfeit products to report their concerns via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline.