From: Express & Star
A shopkeeper in Smethwick who was taken to court and fined for
selling illegal tobacco has now had his display unit removed by a top
national company.
Ari Aziz Mohammed, boss of the UK Mini Market in High Street, has had his tobacco display unit taken away from his store by Imperial Tobacco.
The firm no longer wanted to be associated with the shop after action was taken against him.
Untaxed tobacco was found at the store in March following a raid by trading standards officers.
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Peter Nelson, the company’s anti-illicit trade manager, said: “This sends out a strong message to any retailer looking to profit from this illegal activity that there will be significant consequences if they are caught.
“Imperial Tobacco will not tolerate abuse of our tobacco units especially when they are used or associated with the peddling of illegal tobacco.”
“Mr Mohammed’s actions have threatened the livelihoods of other retailers in Smethwick and deprived the Government of much needed revenue. We will not hesitate to remove tobacco units and cease trading with any business found guilty of selling illegal tobacco products.”
The company’s actions have been backed by Bob Charnley, the trading standards manager for Sandwell Council.
He said: “The sale of cheap illegal tobacco undermines legitimate businesses and supports international organized criminal gangs.
