Vape Land in Southsea shut down by Trading Standards for illegal tobacco sales
‘Nuisance’ and ‘harm’ caused by the crime sees Closure Order granted
A vape shop in Southsea has been shut down after it continuously sold illegal tobacco even after a change of ownership.
Vape Land on Albert Road was shuttered on Monday, October 5 after a Closure Order was granted by Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court. Trading Standards secured the order after providing evidence of the “continued” sale of illegal tobacco products from the premises.
Police seized a number of items during an incident at Vape Land which contributed to the evidence presented to the court.
A Portsmouth Trading Standards spokesperson said: “Portsmouth Trading Standards has secured a Closure Order against Vape Land, Albert Road, Southsea, following evidence of the continued sale of illegal tobacco products from the premises. Despite recent changes of ownership, the same offending had been evidenced continuously from the premises.
“On Monday, Portsmouth City Council served a Closure Notice after Trading Standards officers demonstrated the nuisance and harm this criminality was causing to the local community. The premises has now been closed under a Closure Order granted by Portsmouth Magistrates' Court under Section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
“The sale of illegal tobacco undermines legitimate businesses, fuels organised crime, and makes cheap tobacco more accessible within our communities. We will continue to work with our partners to tackle the sale of illicit tobacco and protect residents and responsible businesses across Portsmouth.”