The Bucharest Shop in Portsmouth will be shut for months after selling illegal vapes amid 'criminal behaviour'
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An illicit vape shop in the north of Portsmouth will be closed for months after selling fake tobacco products.
Police initially shut down The Bucharest Shop in London Road, North End, on March 10 as a part of a crackdown in the sale of fake cigarettes and vapes. Trading Standards officers also were joined by police during inspections in January, where tobacco products were seized from vehicles linked to The Bucharest Shop.
A closure notice was issued earlier this month under the Anti Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014. After the case was heard in Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on March 24, a closure order was granted. The business cannot operate for the next three months.
Portsmouth Trading Standards said: “Magistrates heard detailed evidence about the continued sale of illegal tobacco from Bucharest shop in North End. This included information regarding illicit tobacco being stored in nearby vehicles in an effort to evade detection by Trading Standards and partner agencies.
“Following the evidence presented, the magistrates have now granted a three‑month Closure Order under the Anti‑Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 as they were satisfied that it was necessary to stop the recurrence of criminal behaviour.
“This means the premises will remain closed for the full 3‑month period, preventing any further illegal activity from the site. We will continue to work closely with the public, local businesses and our enforcement partners to disrupt the illegal tobacco trade and protect our communities. Thank you once again for your ongoing support and information—it plays a vital role in helping us take action.”
Councillors praised the work of the trading standards team at a recent meeting. The organisation currently has 18 open investigations, six being related to illegal tobacco and vapes. Cllr Hannah Brent praised the work as “Reassuring to residents of Portsmouth” and highlighted directors’ comments that PTS “delivers exceptional, forward-thinking services”.