A whopping fine of nearly £4,000 has been issued to the director of Supersave Xpress in Harlesden after he was caught selling illegal cigarettes by Brent Council’s Trading Standards Team.
The shop on Craven Park Road in Harlesden, was using a classic smoke and mirrors technique by hiding the illegal packets of fags in a concealed storage area which was covered by rugs. This was discovered by Brent Council's Trading Standard Team who were able to seize over 400 packets of illicit cigarettes, including some which were found to be counterfeit.
Councillor Harbi Farah, Brent’s Cabinet Member for Safer Communities and Public Protection, said: "Local shop owners are the heartbeat of our local communities and high streets. We are on their side and that’s why we cannot let the actions of one tarnish the rest. I am pleased to see another business owner that hasn't been following the rules handed a sentence in court. Selling illegal products is dangerous for those that are purchasing the products and creates an unfair playing field for responsible local businesses.