A shop owner in Weston-super-Mare has been sentenced following the seizure of £10,000 worth of illegal tobacco and vaping products by police and Trading Standards officers.
Naseh Mahmoodi appeared at North Somerset Magistrates Court, where he was handed a 12-month community order, including 100 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, the court ordered Mahmoodi to pay £8,500 towards investigation costs and a £114 victim surcharge. A forfeiture order was also issued to confiscate the illegal tobacco and vape products found on his premises.
The offences came to light during an inspection in August 2023. North Somerset Trading Standards, working alongside Avon and Somerset Police and the South West Regional Tobacco Specialist Officer, visited Mahmoodi’s Grand Super Market on Alexandra Parade in Weston-super-Mare. Officers discovered a substantial quantity of illegal products hidden on the premises, including 304 packets of cigarettes, 4.4 kilograms of hand-rolling tobacco, and 23 illicit vapes.
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The majority of the seized goods were counterfeit, while the rest failed to meet tobacco regulatory standards. Their estimated retail value was approximately £10,000.
Councillor James Clayton, Cabinet Member for Regulatory Services at North Somerset Council, emphasized the commitment to safeguarding the community. “This case highlights our dedication to cracking down on the illegal tobacco and vaping trade, which not only endangers consumers by circumventing safety measures but also undermines legitimate businesses and is often linked to broader criminal activities,” he said.
He added that the sentencing reflects the seriousness with which the courts treat such violations. Clayton also praised Trading Standards officers and partner agencies for their efforts in bringing the case to justice and reaffirmed the council’s resolve to take firm action against illegal tobacco and vaping trade.
Individuals with concerns about illegal tobacco or counterfeit products are encouraged to report them via the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline.